Synonyms for

Harmful

Verb / ˈhɑ:rmfʌl / Another word for harmful — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Causing or likely to cause harm or damage.

Synonyms & similar words

harmless dangerous destructive injurious poisonous toxic hazardous inimical malignant unhealthy noxious venomous pernicious bad damaging unwholesome adverse maleficent malevolent baneful corrosive

Synonyms by register

Formal

detrimental deleterious pernicious injurious

Informal

bad nasty hurtful damaging

Literary

baleful noxious pestilent

Antonyms

beneficial harmless helpful advantageous innocuous salutary wholesome

Common collocations

  • harmful effects
  • harmful substances
  • harmful to health
  • harmful bacteria
  • harmful radiation
  • harmful practices
  • harmful consequences

Word family

noun harm
verb harm
adjective harmful
adverb harmfully

Usage note

Harmful is a common adjective used to describe something that causes or is likely to cause harm. It is generally neutral in register but can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The hot stove can be harmful if you touch it.
  2. Eating too much candy can be harmful to your teeth.
  3. If you don't wear sunscreen, the sun can be harmful to your skin.
  4. Playing with knives can be harmful and dangerous.
  5. Drinking too much alcohol can be harmful to your health.

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