ferocity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'ferocity' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an intense and violent nature or quality of something. For example: "The ferocity of the storm was so intense that it destroyed large sections of the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Music

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Just her ferocity as a singer – no one does what she does.

The Guardian - Music

Bushfires of this ferocity can create their own weather in the form of hurricane-force winds and even lightning.

The Guardian

And Shaw goes on to note that the ferocity of the wolf "is greatly mitigated by an early education; of which the individual specimen from which the present figure was taken, is a remarkable instance;" it had, he wrote, "been rendered in a great degree tame and gentle by the assiduity of the late Sir Ashton Lever".

The Guardian

Andrewsarchus – a big, prehistoric mammalian carnivore that resembled the villainous Gmork from The Neverending Story – is not a household name despite its apparent ferocity, and the shovel-tusked elephants and bear dogs of the age of mammals have not inspired a "Miocene Park" film franchise.

The Guardian - Opinion

The result is to force people such as me into a rabidly "Europhile" position because, when there is a danger of throwing the baby out with the bath water, one's instinct is to protect the baby with all vigour and ferocity.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is 84 now but, even in her loungewear, there is something stately and spectacular about her: the fine angles of her face, the earthy ferocity of her voice.

The Guardian - Music

The chief executive of NHS England has said public health bodies and educators need to tackle overeating with the same ferocity as teen pregnancy and drink driving, labelling obesity "the new smoking".

The Guardian

The British women's handball team may not have landed a medal, or much troubled the leviathan nations of their sport, but in their Copper Box match against the world No8 team Angola, the rookie crew showed more heart, ferocity and sheer giddy joy in taking part in the Olympics than many other teams.

The Guardian - Sport

The ferocity, not least of language emanating from stands and terraces, is quite something to behold.

The Guardian - Sport

There has been a ferocity about Australia's approach that has been far from edifying at times, but it has been mighty effective.

The Guardian - Sport

Only a feed from his mum would quell his ferocity so, whenever trouble reared its head, I had no choice but to hand him over to someone better qualified.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ferocity" to describe the intensity of actions, emotions, or natural events to convey a sense of extreme force or violence.

Common error

Avoid using "ferocity" when "enthusiasm" or "passion" would be more appropriate. "Ferocity" implies a level of intensity that borders on violence or aggression, not mere excitement.

Linguistic Context

Ferocity functions primarily as a noun, denoting the state or quality of being ferocious. Ludwig examples show it describing intense actions or qualities, aligning with its role in characterizing extreme behavior or forces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Sport

13%

Music

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

23%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ferocity" is a noun used to describe an extreme and often violent intensity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and the examples highlight its frequent use in news and media, as well as sport contexts. While often associated with negative connotations, its meaning can shift based on context. To ensure effective writing, use "ferocity" to emphasize extreme force or violence, avoiding its misuse for simple enthusiasm. Explore alternative phrases like "violent force" or "fierce aggression" to refine your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fierce aggression

Combines the ideas of intensity and aggressive behavior.

savage intensity

Combines the ideas of wildness and strength.

untamed aggression

Suggests a lack of control or restraint in the aggressive behavior.

violent force

Highlights the physical aspect of aggression or power.

sheer brutality

Highlights the ruthless and inhumane aspect of the intensity.

extreme forcefulness

Emphasizes the power and assertiveness involved.

extreme intensity

Focuses on the degree of strength or force, rather than the aggressive nature.

relentless force

Focuses on the continuous and persistent nature of the power.

unbridled vehemence

Emphasizes the unrestrained and passionate nature.

mercilessness

Highlights the lack of compassion or pity.

FAQs

How can I use "ferocity" in a sentence?

You can use "ferocity" to describe intense and violent actions or emotions. For example, "The "ferocity of the storm" surprised everyone."

What are some synonyms for "ferocity"?

Synonyms for "ferocity" include "fury", "fierceness", "vehemence", and "violence", depending on the specific context.

Is "ferocity" always negative?

While often associated with negative contexts like aggression or violence, "ferocity" can sometimes describe a positive, intense determination or unwavering commitment. The connotation depends on the context.

How does "ferocity" differ from "intensity"?

"Intensity" refers to the degree of strength or force, while "ferocity" specifically implies a wild, uncontrolled, and often violent intensity. "Ferocity" is a more extreme and aggressive form of intensity.