Synonyms for

Brutality

Verb / bru:ˈtælʌti: / / bru:ˈtælɪti: / Another word for brutality — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Brutality means cruel and violent behavior.

Synonyms & similar words

barbarism viciousness savagery barbarity ferociousness cruelty savagery barbarism violence ferocity ruthlessness inhumanity harshness atrociousness cruelness severity callousness mercilessness brutishness bloodthirstiness viciousness hard-heartedness pitilessness malevolence

Synonyms by register

Formal

atrocity savagery ferocity inhumanity

Informal

roughness nastiness meanness

Literary

barbarity cruelty ruthlessness

Antonyms

kindness compassion gentleness mercy humanity benevolence decency

Common collocations

  • sheer brutality
  • brutality of the attack
  • brutality and violence
  • brutality of the regime
  • brutality of the crime
  • brutality against civilians
  • unimaginable brutality

Word family

noun brutality
verb brutalize
adjective brutal
adverb brutally

Usage note

Brutality often refers to extreme physical violence or cruelty. It carries a strong negative connotation and is typically used to describe actions or situations that are shockingly savage.

Example sentences

  1. The police officer was accused of brutality for using excessive force during the arrest.
  2. The brutality of the war left many people traumatized.
  3. Animal cruelty is a form of brutality that should not be tolerated.
  4. The brutality of the murder shocked the entire community.
  5. The movie depicted the brutality of the slave trade in a realistic way.

Quotes

  • Brutality to an animal is cruelty to mankind - it is only the difference in the victim.
  • The only antidote to brutality is dignity.
  • Brutality and decay define America today.

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