Synonyms for

Brutal

Verb / ˈbru:tʌl / Another word for brutal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

extremely harsh or violent

Synonyms & similar words

beastly savage cruel vicious barbarous fell roughshod brutish unrelenting brute bestial cruel savage ferocious violent ruthless merciless inhuman gruesome barbarous atrocious fierce severe harsh unforgiving pitiless callous brutish heartless murderous bloodthirsty

Synonyms by register

Formal

savage cruel inhumane atrocious

Informal

vicious mean nasty harsh

Literary

fell grim dire

Antonyms

gentle kind merciful compassionate humane tender benevolent

Common collocations

  • brutal honesty
  • brutal efficiency
  • brutal attack
  • brutal regime
  • brutal winter
  • brutal force
  • brutal truth

Word family

noun brutality
adjective brutal
adverb brutally

Usage note

Brutal often implies a harshness or cruelty that is unfeeling and without mercy. It can also describe something that is extremely difficult or unpleasant, such as 'brutal honesty'.

Example sentences

  1. The lion's attack on the gazelle was brutal.
  2. The boxer delivered a brutal punch to his opponent's face.
  3. The prison guards were accused of using brutal force against the inmates.
  4. The dictator's regime was known for its brutal oppression of its citizens.
  5. The car accident was so brutal that it left the victims with serious injuries.

Quotes

  • Brutal acts of terror have no place in civilized society. - Daniel Webster
  • The world is a beautiful place, but it's also brutal. - Ryan Murphy
  • Life is brutal. It's also beautiful, but it's brutal. - Gary Allan

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