What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malintent
Example
The security team was on high alert due to the suspect's malintent. [malintent: noun]
Example
She had malintent when she spread those rumors about her coworker. [malintent: adjective]
malevolence
Example
The villain's malevolence was evident in his cruel treatment of his victims. [malevolence: noun]
Example
She acted with malevolence towards her ex-boyfriend after their breakup. [malevolence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Malevolence is more commonly used than malintent in everyday language. Malevolence is a more well-known word that is used to describe a wide range of negative attitudes and behaviors, while malintent is a more specific term that is used primarily in legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between malintent and malevolence?
Malintent is a more formal word than malevolence and is typically used in legal or academic contexts. Malevolence is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
