What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vile
Example
The smell of the garbage was vile. [vile: adjective]
Example
He made a vile comment about her appearance. [vile: adjective]
Example
The company's treatment of its employees was vile. [vile: adjective]
abhorrent
Example
The idea of animal cruelty is abhorrent to me. [abhorrent: adjective]
Example
His abhorrent behavior towards women is inexcusable. [abhorrent: adjective]
Example
The conditions in the prison were abhorrent. [abhorrent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vile is more common in everyday language than abhorrent. Vile is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while abhorrent is more formal and less commonly used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between vile and abhorrent?
Abhorrent is more formal than vile. It is typically used in more serious or professional contexts where a stronger word is needed to convey a sense of moral objection or offense.
