Vindictive: meaning, definitions and examples

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vindictive

[vɪnˈdɪktɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

behavior

Having or showing a strong or unreasoning desire for revenge; vengeful.

Synonyms

malicious, retaliatory, revengeful, spiteful, vengeful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vindictive	Used to describe someone who seeks revenge and holds grudges for a long time. This word carries a negative connotation. Her vindictive nature led her to plot against her former friends
vengeful	Describes a person or actions that are full of a desire for vengeance or retribution. Often used to emphasize a strong feeling of wanting revenge. He carried a vengeful heart after the incident
spiteful	Relates to actions that are carried out to purposely harm, annoy, or upset someone. Often used for small, petty acts of malice. She made several spiteful comments just to hurt his feelings
revengeful	Describes a strong desire to get back at someone for a perceived wrong. Similar to 'vindictive' but focuses more on the desire for payback. His revengeful thoughts consumed him after the betrayal
malicious	Describes actions or intentions that are meant to cause harm or pain to others. This word also has a negative connotation. The malicious rumors spread quickly, damaging his reputation
retaliatory	Used to describe actions taken in response to a perceived wrong or injury. Often used in legal, political, or conflict situations. The company's retaliatory measures against the whistleblower were widely criticized

Examples of usage

She was known for her vindictive nature, always seeking to settle scores.
His vindictive actions towards his former colleagues led to his downfall.
The vindictive attitude of the character made her a memorable antagonist in the story.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

attitude

Intended to cause anguish or hurt; vengeful.

Synonyms

malicious, retributive, revengeful, spiteful, vengeful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
vindictive	When someone has a very strong desire to hurt someone else as payback. It's often used to describe a personality trait where a person is habitually focused on revenge. She was vindictive after the breakup and spread rumors about him. His vindictive nature made it difficult for others to trust him.
malicious	Describes actions or behavior intended to harm someone physically or emotionally. It implies a mean-spirited intent behind the actions. The malicious comments he posted online were meant to hurt her reputation. She had a malicious smile as she sabotaged her colleague's project.
spiteful	Describes actions driven by petty malice or a desire to deliberately annoy or harm someone. It often suggests small, mean-spirited actions. Her spiteful remarks were designed to hurt his feelings. He poured salt into her coffee out of spiteful jealousy.
retributive	Used in the context of justice or punishment where an action is taken to avenge a wrongdoing. It is more formal and often used in legal or philosophical discussions. The retributive measures taken by the court were seen as too harsh. He sought retributive justice for the crimes committed against his family.
revengeful	Describes a strong desire for revenge. Excitement or eagerness to get back at someone is implied. His revengeful thoughts kept him awake at night, plotting ways to retaliate. She was revengeful after losing her job and wanted to get back at her former employer.
vengeful	Emphasizes a deep-seated need for retaliation. It can describe both feelings and actions geared towards avenging a wrong, often portrayed as consuming. She had a vengeful look in her eyes as she confronted her enemy. His vengeful plan unfolded over many years.

Examples of usage

His vindictive comments were meant to belittle and hurt her.
The vindictive tone of the message left a lasting impact on the recipient.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'vindicta,' meaning 'vengeance' or 'revenge.'
In medieval Latin, it was used to describe a person who was seeking to avenge wrongs.
The concept has existed in various forms across cultures, often tied to justice and retribution.

Psychology

Research shows that vindictive feelings can arise from perceived injustice or betrayal.
People who hold onto vindictive anger may experience more stress and anxiety than those who let go of grudges.
Forgiveness is often recommended in psychological studies as a means to reduce vindictive feelings and promote emotional health.

Literature

Many classic novels feature vindictive characters, such as Heathcliff in 'Wuthering Heights,' whose desire for revenge drives the plot.
Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet' explores themes of vindictiveness, as Hamlet struggles with his desire for revenge against Claudius.
The theme is often tied to moral lessons, where vindictiveness leads to downfall and tragedy.

Pop Culture

TV shows often depict vindictive characters as villains who plot revenge against heroes.
In movies like 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' the protagonist becomes vindictive after being wronged and seeks to reclaim his lost life.
Social media sometimes amplifies vindictive behavior, where people publicly share grievances for revenge.

Social Dynamics

In group settings, vindictive behavior can lead to toxic environments and conflict.
Some studies suggest that societies that encourage cooperation discourage vindictive actions, promoting harmony.
Being vindictive can erode trust among friends and family, impacting relationships long-term.

Translations

Translations of the word "vindictive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vingativo

🇮🇳 प्रतिशोधी

🇩🇪 rachsüchtig

🇮🇩 pendendam

🇺🇦 мстивий

🇵🇱 mściwy

🇯🇵 復讐心に燃える

🇫🇷 vindicatif

🇪🇸 vengativo

🇹🇷 intikamcı

🇰🇷 복수심에 불타는

🇸🇦 انتقامي

🇨🇿 pomstychtivý

🇸🇰 pomstychtivý

🇨🇳 报复性的

🇸🇮 maščevalen

🇮🇸 hefndargjarn

🇰🇿 кекшіл

🇬🇪 შურისმაძიებელი

🇦🇿 intiqamçı

🇲🇽 vengativo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,268, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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18265 cosmological
18266 ousted
18267 deceleration
18268 vindictive
18269 endorsing
18270 splashing
18271 immunized
...