Definitions
- Referring to actions or behavior that is morally wrong or wicked. - Describing something that is harmful, destructive, or malevolent. - Talking about a person or entity that is characterized by cruelty, malice, or immorality.
- Describing a person or entity that has a desire to harm others or cause suffering. - Referring to actions or behavior that is intentionally harmful or malicious. - Talking about a feeling or attitude that is characterized by ill will or hostility.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe negative qualities or characteristics.
- 2Both words suggest harmful or destructive intentions.
- 3Both words can be used to describe people, actions, or attitudes.
- 4Both words have a negative connotation.
What is the difference?
- 1Scope: Evil is a broader term that encompasses a wide range of immoral or wicked behavior, while malevolent is more specific and refers to intentional harm or ill will towards others.
- 2Intensity: Malevolent suggests a stronger and more deliberate intention to cause harm than evil.
- 3Usage: Evil is more commonly used in everyday language, while malevolent is more formal and less frequently used.
- 4Connotation: Evil can be associated with supernatural or religious contexts, while malevolent is more commonly used in secular contexts.
Remember this!
Evil and malevolent are synonyms that describe negative qualities or characteristics. However, evil is a broader term that encompasses a wide range of immoral or wicked behavior, while malevolent is more specific and refers to intentional harm or ill will towards others. Additionally, malevolent suggests a stronger and more deliberate intention to cause harm than evil. While evil is more commonly used in everyday language, malevolent is more formal and less frequently used.
