spiteful
word
Definition
Describes someone who deliberately wants to hurt, upset, or annoy others, often because of anger or jealousy.
Usage & Nuances
'Spiteful' is negative and formal or semi-formal. It describes actions or attitudes driven by wanting revenge or harm, not just simple dislike. Common collocations: 'spiteful remark', 'spiteful act'. Not to be confused with 'spite', which is the noun.
Spanish: rencoroso - malévoloPortuguese (BR): maldoso - rancorosoPortuguese (PT): maldoso - rancorosoChinese (Simplified): 恶意的 - 怀恨的Chinese (Traditional): 惡意的 - 懷恨的Hindi: दुष्ट - द्वेषपूर्णArabic: حقود - حاقد
Example Sentences
He made a spiteful comment to hurt her feelings.
basic
The children were spiteful to their classmate when he won the game.
basic
She gave him a spiteful look and walked away.
basic
He sent a spiteful email to his boss after quitting.
natural
Don't be so spiteful—it's not going to help anyone.
natural
Sometimes people say spiteful things when they're hurt themselves.
natural