Word: Accurse
Definition:
"Accurse" is a verb that means to curse someone or something, declaring it to be evil or deserving of punishment. When someone is accursed, they are said to be under a strong negative influence or divine punishment.
Usage Instructions:
"Accurse" is a formal or literary word and is not commonly used in everyday conversation. Instead, people often use simpler words like "curse" or "damn." However, if you are writing poetry, stories, or engaging in discussions about literature or religion, "accurse" can be appropriate.
Example Sentence:
"The ancient sorceress accursed the village for their betrayal, warning them of misfortune to come."
Advanced Usage:
In a more advanced context, "accursed" can also function as an adjective, describing something that is damned or cursed. For instance: "The accursed land was said to be haunted by spirits of the wronged."
Word Variants:
- Accursed (adjective): Describing something that is cursed or damned.
- Accursing (noun): The act of cursing or condemning someone.
Different Meanings:
While "accurse" primarily refers to the act of cursing or condemning, in a broader sense, it can also imply a strong disapproval or moral condemnation of actions or behaviors.
Synonyms:
- Curse
- Damn
- Condemn
- Execrate
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "accurse," but you can often find phrases that include "curse," such as:
- "Under a curse" (to be affected by a curse)
- "Cast a curse" (to pronounce a curse on someone)
Summary:
"Accurse" is an impactful word that conveys the idea of placing a curse or condemnation on someone or something.