What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demonic
Example
The movie portrayed a demonic possession that terrified the audience. [demonic: adjective]
Example
The dictator's actions were described as demonic by his opponents. [demonic: adjective]
Example
The abandoned house had a demonic atmosphere that made me shiver. [demonic: adjective]
diabolical
Example
The villain's diabolical plan was to destroy the city with a giant laser. [diabolical: adjective]
Example
The con artist's diabolical scheme involved stealing people's identities and draining their bank accounts. [diabolical: adjective]
Example
The scientist's diabolical invention was a virus that could wipe out humanity. [diabolical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Diabolical is more commonly used than demonic in everyday language. Diabolical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while demonic is less common and refers to a more specific type of evil.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demonic and diabolical?
Both demonic and diabolical are associated with a formal or literary tone, although diabolical can also be used in informal contexts to describe extreme or outrageous behavior.
