What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heinous
Example
The judge sentenced the criminal to life in prison for his heinous crimes. [heinous: adjective]
Example
The dictator's heinous acts against his own people were condemned by the international community. [heinous: adjective]
monstrous
Example
The monstrous waves of the hurricane destroyed entire towns along the coast. [monstrous: adjective]
Example
The serial killer's monstrous acts of violence left the community in fear. [monstrous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Heinous and monstrous are both less common words that are typically used in more formal or serious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heinous and monstrous?
Heinous is generally considered more formal than monstrous, which can be used in a more casual or figurative sense.
