Vicious Meaning in English
word
Definition
If someone or something is vicious, they are dangerously violent, cruel, or intended to hurt. It can also describe something very severe or intense, like a vicious attack or a vicious cycle.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for aggressive animals, cruel people, or harsh actions: 'a vicious dog', 'a vicious rumor', 'a vicious attack'. It can be literal or figurative. 'Vicious cycle' is a very common fixed phrase for a bad situation that keeps causing itself.
Example Sentences
The vicious dog scared the children.
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He made a vicious comment about her appearance.
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They were caught in a vicious storm at sea.
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Online, people can be vicious when they think no one knows who they are.
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Once the rumor started, it turned into a vicious cycle of blame and anger.
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The review was vicious—it didn't just criticize the movie, it tried to destroy it.
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