Cool MateSinister
UK //ˈsɪnɪstə//US //ˈsɪnɪstɚ//
Definition
Having an evil or malevolent quality; suggesting harm or danger.
In simple words: Something bad or evil that causes worry.
Examples
- The sinister music in the movie made me feel anxious.
- There was a sinister atmosphere in the abandoned house.
- The politician's sinister motives were revealed in the investigation.
- She cast a sinister glance at her opponent.
- Reports of a sinister figure in the park circulated among the children.
Usage notes
Use 'sinister' to describe a feeling or an atmosphere that seems threatening or evil. It is more common in formal contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'sinister' like 'sin'; something that feels wrong or evil.
Collocations
- sinister plan
- sinister smile
- sinister character
Synonyms
- evil
- malevolent
- ominous
- threatening
- wicked
Antonyms
- benevolent
- harmless
- kind
Common mistakes
- Used interchangeably with 'mysterious' without understanding the negative connotation.
- Confused with 'sinisterly', the adverb form, when trying to describe actions.