What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
violent
Example
The protesters turned violent and started throwing rocks at the police. [violent: adjective]
Example
The movie was so violent that I had to cover my eyes during some scenes. [violent: adjective]
Example
He has a history of violent behavior towards his family members. [violent: adjective]
savage
Example
The lion attacked its prey in a savage manner, tearing it apart with its claws. [savage: adjective]
Example
The tribe was known for their savage rituals and practices. [savage: adjective]
Example
The storm caused savage damage to the town, leaving many homeless. [savage: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Violent is more commonly used than savage in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Savage is less common and may be considered outdated or offensive in certain situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between violent and savage?
Both violent and savage are generally informal terms, but violent can be used in formal contexts such as academic writing or news reporting, while savage is less appropriate in such settings.
