Violently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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violently

[หˆvaษชษ™lษ™ntli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

adverb

in a way that causes or involves great physical force, violence, or damage

Synonyms

aggressively, brutally, forcefully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
violently

When describing actions that involve extreme physical force or intensity, often with chaotic or dangerous outcomes.

  • He shook the bottle violently until the cap flew off
  • The storm hit the coast violently, causing extensive damage
forcefully

When actions are carried out with a lot of physical force or with a strong personality; it implies decisiveness rather than violence.

  • He closed the door forcefully, making the whole room shake
  • She argued her point forcefully, leaving no room for doubt
aggressively

Used when someone behaves in a hostile, assertive, or confrontational manner, often trying to dominate or provoke.

  • She spoke aggressively during the argument
  • The dog barked aggressively at the stranger
brutally

Applicable in situations involving extreme cruelty or harshness, often causing significant pain or suffering. This word carries a very negative connotation.

  • The dictator ruled brutally, punishing anyone who opposed him
  • The soldiers were brutally honest about their experiences

Examples of usage

  • The protesters were violently attacked by the police.
  • The storm hit the coast violently, causing widespread destruction.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters often express their feelings violently during moments of high tension, symbolizing inner turmoil.
  • Violent themes frequently appear in Shakespeareโ€™s works, illustrating the chaos of human emotions and conflicts.
  • The concept is used metaphorically in poetry, representing intense feelings of love, anger, or despair.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that exposure to violent media can lead to an increase in aggressive behaviors and desensitization over time.
  • Different cultures interpret violent reactions in social situations uniquely, affecting how conflicts are resolved.
  • Therapy approaches often explore underlying emotions behind violent expressions to help individuals communicate more constructively.

Pop Culture

  • Violence is a central theme in many action movies, where characters often navigate through dangerous scenarios in pursuit of justice.
  • Video games often feature violent scenarios, sparking debates on their impact on behavior and societal norms.
  • Dominique Ansel, a renowned chef, named a dessert 'The Cronut' which went 'viral' but playfully alluded to โ€˜crueltyโ€™ โ€“ a mix of sweetness and fiery reactions.

Science

  • In physics, violent reactions describe processes that happen rapidly, often releasing a significant amount of energy like explosions.
  • Animal behavior studies show that certain species display violent mating rituals to establish dominance and attract partners.
  • Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, are characterized by violent movements in the Earth's crust, illustrating the force of geological processes.

Origin of 'violently'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'violentus,' which means 'vehement or impetuous,' relating to forceful actions.
  • It was first used in English around the late 14th century to describe intense actions or feelings.
  • Violently has roots in both physical and emotional contexts, showing strength in both bodily actions and passionate responses.

The word 'violently' originates from the Middle English word 'violentli', which was derived from the Old French word 'violent'. The root of the word can be traced back to the Latin word 'violentus', meaning 'vehement, forcible'. The concept of violence has been a part of human history, often associated with acts of aggression, force, and harm. The adverb 'violently' is used to describe actions or events that involve great physical force or intensity.


See also: violent.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,559 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.