sadism

/'sædizm/

Thân thiện

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A psychological condition or behavior: The deriving of pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.
   • A general tendency: Extreme cruelty or delight in being cruel.

Usage

• The word "sadism" is typically used in clinical, psychological, or critical social contexts to describe a specific paraphilia or a broader pattern of cruel behavior. It is often discussed in contrast to "masochism."
• It functions as a non-count noun when referring to the general concept or tendency (e.g., "an act of sadism"). It can be used in a countable sense when referring to specific instances or types (e.g., "the sadisms of the regime").

Examples

• Noun:
  • The psychiatrist diagnosed the patient's behavior as stemming from sadism.
  • The novel explores the sadism inherent in the corrupt political system.
  • His bullying was not just mean-spirited; it exhibited a disturbing level of sadism.

Advanced Usage

• "Sadism and masochism (S&M)": Often paired together, this phrase refers to consensual activities that involve giving and receiving pain or humiliation as part of sexual practice or personal dynamic.
• In literary/cultural critique: Used to analyze characters, narratives, or societal structures that derive pleasure from the subjugation or suffering of others.
  • The film is a critique of the bureaucratic sadism of the totalitarian state.

Variants and Related Words

• Sadist (n): A person who derives pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from inflicting pain or humiliation on others.
  • He was revealed to be a sadist who enjoyed his victims' fear.
• Sadistic (adj): Pertaining to or characterized by sadism; deriving pleasure from cruelty.
  • She described his smile as sadistic.
• Sadistically (adv): In a sadistic manner.
  • He sadistically prolonged the interrogation.

Synonyms

• Cruelty: Willful infliction of pain or suffering.
• Brutality: Savage physical violence; cruel and inhuman treatment.
• Maliciousness: The intention or desire to do evil or cause harm to another.

Antonyms

• Compassion: Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
• Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
• Kindness: The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Psychological sadism: Refers to deriving pleasure from the emotional or mental suffering of others, not necessarily involving physical pain.
• Everyday sadism: A modern psychological concept describing non-clinical traits where individuals enjoy cruel behaviors in daily life (e.g., enjoying internet trolling, cruel practical jokes).

Học thuật

Noun

1. sexual pleasure obtained by inflicting harm (physical or psychological) on others