evil

[ˈiːv(ə)l]

evil Definition

• 1. profoundly immoral and wicked behavior
• 2. harmful or tending to harm

Using evil: Examples

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

• Example

  The evil deeds of the dictator will never be forgotten.

• Example

  She was accused of practicing black magic and consorting with evil spirits.

• Example

  The evil effects of pollution on the environment are becoming more apparent every day.

evil Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for evil

• wicked
• immoral
• sinful
• malevolent
• harmful

Antonyms for evil

• good
• virtuous
• moral

Idioms Using evil

• the root of all evil

  money, believed to be the main cause of human suffering and conflict

  Example

  Some people say that the root of all evil is the love of money.

• speak of the devil (and he shall appear)

  when you talk about someone, they often show up unexpectedly

  Example

  A: Hey, have you seen John today? B: No, why? A: Speak of the devil, here he comes now!

• give the devil his due

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

  Example

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

Phrases with evil

• the lesser of two evils

  a situation where there are two options, both of which are undesirable, but one is less so than the other

  Example

  I don't like either candidate, but I guess I'll vote for the lesser of two evils.

• evil eye

  a look that is believed to be able to harm someone

  Example

  She thought her neighbor gave her the evil eye when she walked by.

• evil twin

  a fictional character who looks exactly like a protagonist but has an opposite personality

  Example

  In the TV show, the main character has an evil twin who causes all sorts of trouble.

Origins of evil

from Old English 'yfel'

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Summary: evil in Brief

The term 'evil' [ˈiːv(ə)l] refers to profoundly immoral and wicked behavior, or something harmful. It can be used as an adjective or noun, and is often associated with malevolence. Examples include 'The evil deeds of the dictator will never be forgotten,' and 'The evil effects of pollution on the environment.' Phrases like 'the lesser of two evils' and idioms like 'the root of all evil' demonstrate the concept of choosing between undesirable options or the belief that money is the cause of human suffering.