C1adjective formal 2K

Vicious

🇬🇧 UK //ˈvɪʃəs// 🇺🇸 US //ˈvɪʃəs//

Meaning of Vicious

Having the nature of being cruel, aggressive, or violent.

In simple words: Very cruel or violent.

Vicious in a sentence

• The vicious storm caused widespread destruction.
• He was known for his vicious temper when provoked.
• The movie depicted a vicious cycle of revenge.
• Vicious attacks on innocent people are unacceptable.
• She had a vicious glare that made others uncomfortable.

How to use Vicious

Use 'vicious' to describe harmful actions or characteristics. It is more formal and less common in everyday speech.

Grammar pattern

vicious + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'vicious' as 'viciously mean', imagine a mean dog barking angrily.

Related words

Collocations with Vicious

• vicious attack
• vicious circle
• vicious behavior

Synonyms for Vicious

• cruel
• malicious
• ferocious
• savage
• brutal

Opposites of Vicious

• gentle
• kind
• mild

Common mistakes with Vicious

• Confused with 'malicious', which implies intent to harm.
• Using 'vicious' to describe mild behavior, which is too strong a term.
• Omitting 'vicious' when describing intense emotions or actions.

Frequently asked questions about Vicious

What does Vicious mean?

Very cruel or violent.

What is the definition of Vicious?

Having the nature of being cruel, aggressive, or violent.

How do you use Vicious in a sentence?

The vicious storm caused widespread destruction.

Can you give another example of Vicious?

He was known for his vicious temper when provoked.

What are synonyms for Vicious?

Common alternatives include cruel, malicious, ferocious, savage, brutal.

What is the opposite of Vicious?

Opposite meanings include gentle, kind, mild.

What words go with Vicious?

It commonly pairs with vicious attack, vicious circle, vicious behavior.

What are common mistakes when using Vicious?

Confused with 'malicious', which implies intent to harm. Using 'vicious' to describe mild behavior, which is too strong a term. Omitting 'vicious' when describing intense emotions or actions.

How do you pronounce Vicious?

US: //ˈvɪʃəs//, UK: //ˈvɪʃəs//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Vicious formal or informal?

"Vicious" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Vicious?

Use 'vicious' to describe harmful actions or characteristics. It is more formal and less common in everyday speech.

What CEFR level is Vicious?

"Vicious" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.