B1noun2K

Victim

UK /["/ˈvɪktɪm/"]/US /["/ˈvɪktɪm/"]/

Definition

a person who has been attacked, injured or killed as the result of a crime, a disease, an accident, etc.

In simple words: A person who is harmed or suffers from something bad.

Examples

  • The police are searching for the victim of the robbery.
  • She felt like a victim of circumstances beyond her control.
  • The victim was treated for minor injuries at the hospital.
  • Many victims of natural disasters require immediate help.
  • He realized he was not just a victim but a survivor.

Usage notes

Use 'victim' in contexts involving crime, accidents, or negative situations. Avoid using it lightly or jokingly, as it can be sensitive.

Grammar pattern

victim + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'victory' that someone didn't get - they are a victim instead.

Collocations

  • hapless
  • helpless
  • innocent
  • be
  • become
  • fall
  • die
  • survive (something)
  • suffer (something)
  • culture
  • mentality
  • status
  • victim of
  • play the victim
  • a victim of your/​its own success
  • hapless
  • helpless
  • innocent
  • be
  • become
  • fall
  • die
  • survive (something)
  • suffer (something)
  • culture
  • mentality
  • status
  • victim of
  • play the victim
  • a victim of your/​its own success
  • hapless
  • helpless
  • innocent
  • be
  • become
  • fall
  • die
  • survive (something)
  • suffer (something)
  • culture
  • mentality
  • status
  • victim of
  • play the victim
  • a victim of your/​its own success

Synonyms

  • target

Antonyms

  • perpetrator
  • offender

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'casualty' - 'victim' refers specifically to harm or suffering.
  • Using 'victim' without specifying what they are a victim of, making the meaning unclear.
  • Assuming 'victim' always implies weakness; it can also refer to people in unfair situations.