B2noun5K

Spite

UK /["/spaɪt/"]/US /["/spaɪt/"]/

Definition

a feeling of wanting to hurt or upset somebody

In simple words: A feeling of wanting to hurt someone because you are angry.

Examples

  • She refused to help him out of spite.
  • Out of spite, he ignored all her messages.
  • The decision was made purely in spite of common sense.
  • He acted out of spite, not caring about the consequences.
  • She kept the door locked out of spite after their argument.

Usage notes

Use 'spite' when someone does something to intentionally hurt or annoy another person. It is often used in negative contexts, such as spiteful behavior, and is not typically used in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

spite + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'spike' — imagine someone spiking a football out of anger.

Collocations

  • pure
  • sheer
  • personal
  • be full of
  • feel
  • vent
  • out of spite
  • with spite
  • spite towards/​toward

Synonyms

  • malice
  • resentment
  • animosity
  • hostility
  • ill will

Antonyms

  • kindness
  • benevolence
  • forgiveness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'spiteful' as a noun.
  • Using 'in spite' incorrectly in phrases.
  • Overusing it in positive contexts.