Synonyms for

Thug

Verb / θʌg / Another word for thug — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A thug is a violent person who commits crimes.

Synonyms & similar words

punk goon toughie tough hood hoodlum strongarmer criminal gangster hoodlum ruffian hooligan bully goon mugger robber thief bandit outlaw vandal delinquent lawbreaker terrorist assassin killer murderer psychopath

Synonyms by register

Formal

ruffian hooligan brigand miscreant

Informal

goon hoodlum punk thugger

Literary

bully bravo knave

Antonyms

hero saint angel gentleman benefactor philanthropist

Common collocations

  • violent thug
  • armed thug
  • street thug
  • common thug
  • brutal thug
  • thug life
  • thug mentality

Word family

noun thug
adjective thuggish

Usage note

The term 'thug' often carries strong negative connotations, implying a violent and brutish person, typically involved in criminal activity. It is generally considered informal and derogatory.

Example sentences

  1. The thug broke into the house and stole the jewelry.
  2. The police arrested the thug for robbing the convenience store.
  3. I saw a thug on the street corner selling drugs.
  4. The thug threatened to hurt me if I didnt give him my wallet.
  5. The thug was known for his violent behavior and criminal activities.

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