Synonyms for

Evil

Verb / ˈi:vʌl / Another word for evil — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Morally wrong or wicked.

Synonyms & similar words

malefic goodness immorality vicious wickedness iniquity evilness malign malevolent good wicked immoral sinister malevolent vile corrupt depraved cruel nefarious diabolical malicious sinful wrong heinous atrocious unholy satanic devilish dark maleficent

Synonyms by register

Formal

malevolent wicked sinister atrocious

Informal

bad nasty rotten lousy

Literary

baleful fell dire

Antonyms

good virtuous benevolent righteous moral kind angelic

Common collocations

  • pure evil
  • face of evil
  • fight evil
  • evil deeds
  • evil empire
  • evil intent
  • pure evil

Word family

noun evil
adjective evil
adverb evilly

Usage note

Evil typically refers to profound immorality and wickedness, often with a supernatural or cosmic connotation. It is a strong word and should be used judiciously.

Example sentences

  1. The evil witch in the story wanted to harm the main character.
  2. It's important to always choose to do good instead of evil.
  3. The evil deeds of the villain made the hero want to stop him.
  4. Some people believe that evil spirits can haunt a house.
  5. The evil dictator ruled his country with an iron fist.

Quotes

  • Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering. - Yoda
  • All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. - Edmund Burke
  • The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. - John F. Kennedy

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