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Maul

UK //mɔːl// US //mɔl// Pronunciation

Definition

To inflict serious injuries by tearing apart or attacking.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To injure someone badly by attacking them.

Examples

• The lion began to maul its prey as the crowd watched in horror.
• A dog can maul someone if it's not properly trained.
• The boxer was unfortunately mauled during the fight and had to be hospitalized.
• Witnesses reported seeing the bear maul the unfortunate camper.
• The children watched the video where a tiger mauls a large piece of meat.

Usage notes

Used primarily in contexts involving animals or physical attacks. Avoid in formal writing; instead use 'attack' or 'assault'.

Grammar pattern

maul + object

Memory hint

Imagine a bear, with huge claws, that 'mauls' its prey.

Collocations

• maul by a dog
• maul a victim
• seriously maul
• maul to death
• mauling incident

Synonyms

• attack
• assault
• mangle
• wound
• tear

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'mull' (to think over)
• Using 'maul' when referring to gentle play instead of harm.
• Incorrect tense usage, e.g., 'mauls' instead of 'mauling'.