Ruffian Meaning in English
word
ˈɹʌfi.ən
RUHF-ee-uhn
ɹˈʌfiən
RUHF-ee-uhn
Definition
A ruffian is a violent, rough person, especially someone who threatens, bullies, or hurts others. It is usually used for criminals or those who act aggressively.
Usage & Nuances
'Ruffian' is formal and old-fashioned; more common today are 'bully', 'thug', or 'criminal'. Used mainly in literature, history, or dramatic contexts, rarely in everyday conversation.
Spanish: matón - rufiánPortuguese (BR): rufião - bandidoPortuguese (PT): rufia - bandidoChinese (Simplified): 恶棍 - 流氓Chinese (Traditional): 惡棍 - 流氓Hindi: गुंडाArabic: أزعر - همجيBengali: গুন্ডা - সন্ত্রাসীRussian: головорез - хулиган - громилаJapanese: ごろつき - ならず者Vietnamese: du côn - kẻ vô lạiKorean: 깡패 - 불한당Turkish: zorbalar - kabadayıUrdu: بدمعاش - غنڈہIndonesian: preman - penjahat
Example Sentences
The ruffian stole my bag and ran away.
basic
A group of ruffians were fighting in the street.
basic
Don’t talk to that ruffian by the gate.
basic
Those guys acted like real ruffians in the movie.
natural
You can’t let a ruffian scare you out of standing up for yourself.
natural
Back then, the town was ruled by a dangerous ruffian no one dared cross.
natural