Synonyms for

Brutally

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

Definition

in a savagely violent way

Synonyms & similar words

viciously savagely cruelly harshly inhumanly mercilessly ruthlessly savage severely viciously violently ferociously brutish barbarously bloodthirsty brutal pitiless tyrannical hardheartedly sadistically unfeelingly uncivilized

Synonyms by register

Formal

harshly severely ruthlessly mercilessly

Informal

meanly nastily viciously awfully

Literary

fiercely savagely grimly

Antonyms

gently kindly mildly softly tenderly compassionately

Common collocations

  • brutally honest
  • brutally effective
  • brutally attacked
  • brutally murdered
  • brutally honest assessment
  • brutally efficient
  • brutally unfair

Word family

noun brutality
adjective brutal

Usage note

Often used to describe actions that are harsh, cruel, or violent. Can also be used informally to emphasize something that is very direct or severe, such as 'brutally honest'.

Example sentences

  1. The lion brutally attacked its prey.
  2. The murderer brutally killed his victim.
  3. The storm brutally destroyed the town.
  4. The soldier was brutally beaten by the enemy.
  5. The bullies brutally bullied the vulnerable child.

Quotes

  • Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent. - Isaac Asimov
  • I am not a violent man. But I do believe in justice. - Liam Neeson
  • An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind. - Mahatma Gandhi

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