What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brutality
Example
The video showed the brutality of the police towards the protesters. [brutality: noun]
Example
The prisoner suffered from the brutality of his captors. [brutality: noun]
ferocity
Example
The lion attacked its prey with ferocity and determination. [ferocity: noun]
Example
The storm hit the coast with ferocity, causing widespread destruction. [ferocity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brutality is more commonly used than ferocity in everyday language, especially when discussing acts of violence or cruelty. Ferocity is less common but can be used in various contexts, including describing intense behavior in both humans and animals as well as powerful natural events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between brutality and ferocity?
Both brutality and ferocity are generally used in formal and informal contexts. However, brutality may carry a stronger negative connotation and is often associated with more serious and severe situations.
