devils

[ˈdevəlz]

devils Definition

• 1. plural form of devil, a supernatural being typically associated with evil and often depicted as a horned, red-skinned creature with a long tail and cloven hooves
• 2. a person who behaves in an evil or cruel way

Using devils: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "devils" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The devils in the painting were depicted with red skin and horns.

• Example

  He was called a devil for his cruel treatment of animals.

• Example

  The devil made me do it!

• Example

  She's a little devil when she's in a mischievous mood.

devils Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for devils

• demons
• imps
• satan
• lucifer
• fiends

Idioms Using devils

• between the devil and the deep blue sea

  a difficult situation where there are two equally unpleasant choices

  Example

  I'm between the devil and the deep blue sea - if I quit my job, I won't have any income, but if I stay, I'll be miserable.

• the devil you know is better than the devil you don't

  it is better to deal with a difficult or problematic person or situation you are familiar with than to risk dealing with someone or something new and unknown that could be even worse

  Example

  I know my boss is tough to work with, but the devil you know is better than the devil you don't.

• speak of the devil

  used to say that someone has appeared just as you were talking about them

  Example

  Speak of the devil! I was just telling Jane about how you always show up at the most unexpected times.

Phrases with devils

• devil's advocate

  a person who expresses a contentious opinion in order to provoke debate or test the strength of the opposing arguments

  Example

  I'll play devil's advocate and argue against your proposal.

• the devil is in the details

  small things in plans, schemes, or arrangements that can cause serious problems if they are not dealt with carefully

  Example

  We need to go over the contract with a fine-tooth comb because the devil is in the details.

• give the devil his due

  acknowledge someone's good qualities even though you don't like them

  Example

  I don't like him, but I have to give the devil his due - he's a great salesman.

Origins of devils

from Old English 'deofol', meaning 'evil spirit'

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Summary: devils in Brief

The term 'devils' [ˈdevəlz] refers to the plural form of 'devil,' a supernatural being associated with evil. It also denotes a person who behaves in an evil or cruel way. The phrase 'devil's advocate' describes someone who takes a contentious position to provoke debate. 'Between the devil and the deep blue sea' describes a difficult situation with two equally unpleasant choices. 'Give the devil his due' means acknowledging someone's good qualities despite disliking them.