What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
villain
Example
The villain in the movie was a ruthless dictator who wanted to take over the world. [villain: noun]
Example
He was accused of being a villain for stealing from the poor. [villain: noun]
miscreant
Example
The miscreant was caught stealing from the store. [miscreant: noun]
Example
She was labeled a miscreant for cheating on the exam. [miscreant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Villain is more commonly used than miscreant in everyday language, especially in the context of storytelling and entertainment.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between villain and miscreant?
Miscreant is more formal than villain, and is often used in legal or official contexts to describe people who break the law or behave badly.