malevolency
Definition
Noun: 1. The quality or state of having or showing a wish to do evil to others; the quality of being malevolent. It refers to an inherent or persistent disposition toward hatred, ill will, and the desire to cause harm or suffering.
Usage
"Malevolency" is a formal and somewhat literary noun used to describe the deep-seated, malicious nature of a person, force, or intention. It emphasizes the inherent quality of evil intent rather than a single malicious act. * The old tales spoke of a spirit whose sheer malevolency could poison the land. * His criticism was not merely harsh; it was delivered with a palpable malevolency.
Examples
- The dictator ruled with a chilling , suppressing all dissent without mercy.
- Scholars debated whether the creature's actions were driven by instinct or by genuine .
- She could sense the behind his seemingly polite smile.
Advanced Usage
- Conceptual or Impersonal Use: The word can be applied to abstract concepts or atmospheres that seem to embody evil intent.
- The malevolency of the disease lay in its silent, relentless progression.
Variants and Related Words
- Malevolent (adjective): Having or showing a wish to do evil to others.
- He gave her a malevolent glare.
- Malevolence (noun): The more common synonym for "malevolency," identical in meaning.
- Malice (noun): The desire to harm someone or see them suffer; often used in legal contexts (e.g., "malice aforethought"). It can imply a slightly more active intention than the inherent quality suggested by "malevolency."
Synonyms
- Malice
- Maliciousness
- Spite
- Venom
- Hatred
- Ill will
Antonyms
- Benevolence
- Goodwill
- Kindness
- Benignity
Noun
-
the quality of threatening evil
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