What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
devilish
Example
The little boy had a devilish grin on his face as he snuck a cookie from the jar. [devilish: adjective]
Example
She has a devilish sense of humor that always keeps us laughing. [devilish: adjective]
Example
This math problem is devilish, I can't seem to figure it out. [devilish: adjective]
diabolical
Example
The villain's diabolical plan was to destroy the city with a giant laser. [diabolical: adjective]
Example
He was known for his diabolical schemes and ruthless tactics. [diabolical: adjective]
Example
The physics problem was so diabolical that even the smartest students struggled to solve it. [diabolical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Devilish is more commonly used than diabolical in everyday language. Devilish can be used in a wider range of contexts, while diabolical is typically reserved for more extreme situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between devilish and diabolical?
Diabolical is generally considered more formal and serious than devilish. It is often used in more dramatic or ominous contexts, while devilish can be used in both formal and informal settings.
