What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brute
Example
The wrestler displayed his brute strength by lifting his opponent effortlessly. [brute: noun]
Example
She was shocked by the brute force used to break open the door. [brute: adjective]
savage
Example
The tribe lived as savages in the deep jungle, far away from modern civilization. [savage: noun]
Example
He unleashed a savage attack on his opponent, leaving him injured and helpless. [savage: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Savage is more commonly used than brute in everyday language. Savage has a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe both people and animals, while brute is less versatile and mainly used to describe someone's physical strength or aggressive behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between brute and savage?
Both brute and savage have informal connotations. However, brute can sometimes be used in a more formal context when referring to physical strength or force, while savage is generally used in informal settings to describe wild or violent behavior.