pure malice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pure malice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or intent that is motivated solely by a desire to cause harm or suffering to others. Example: "His actions were driven by pure malice, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Opinion

Books

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Sunday league is pure malice a lot of the time.

The Guardian - Sport

But this is a terrifically absorbing thriller with that vodka-kick of pure malice.

The Guardian - Film

Spreading false rumours for political advantage, for pure malice, or just for entertainment, is as old as the hills.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is an unwholesome kind of toxic deliciousness in this film: a vodka kick of pure malice.

The Guardian - Film

The pure malice of Ducornet's analyst is not alleviated by her reluctance to show us much by way of the injuries he's inflicting on his patients.

The New York Times - Books

I would like to think that this is due to sheer ignorance rather than pure malice, which is much harder to tackle.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Will Disconnect finally reflect the pure undiluted malice of modern technology?

The Guardian - Film

And by year's end the central standoff between a mournful, angry avenger and a figure of pure anarchic malice has taken on the fusty air of cliché.

The New York Times

I can't think about primary school without thinking about the Henrik Larsson era when Old Firm games were death matches, titans like Bobo Baldé and Lorenzo Amoruso going toe-to-toe and making the earth beneath them shake, Neil Lennon and Fernando Ricksen staring pure demonic malice into each other's souls for ninety minutes of bloodshed and brilliance.

Vice

Pure, poisonous, toxic malice.

The Guardian

But when it comes to voting in the booth, our hearts are pure and without malice… That's their attitude.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pure malice" when you want to emphasize that an action or intention is motivated solely by a desire to cause harm, without any other contributing factors or justifications.

Common error

Avoid using "pure malice" in situations where the intent is merely mischievous or playfully mean. The phrase carries a strong connotation of deep-seated and calculated evil, making it unsuitable for lighthearted or trivial scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pure malice" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun (often implied or stated) to indicate the nature of an action, intent, or character. It highlights the unadulterated nature of the malice involved. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Film

17%

Books

8%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Academia

8%

Science

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pure malice" is used to describe actions or intentions motivated solely by a desire to cause harm or suffering. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. It's important to reserve it for situations where the intent is truly malicious, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. Alternatives such as "sheer malevolence" or "utter wickedness" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is commonly found in news media, film reviews, and literary contexts, lending it a neutral to formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sheer malevolence

Highlights the unqualified and intense nature of the malevolence.

unadulterated spite

Emphasizes the unmixed and genuine nature of the spite.

utter wickedness

Focuses on the complete and profound evil character.

undiluted venom

Implies an unweakened and potent form of poisonous ill will.

absolute animosity

Stresses the total and intense hatred or hostility.

unalloyed hatred

Stresses the unmixed and genuine nature of the hatred.

unmitigated vindictiveness

Highlights the relentless and unforgiving nature of the revengeful spirit.

perfect cruelty

Emphasizes the flawless and extreme nature of the cruelty.

complete ruthlessness

Focuses on the absence of pity or compassion.

total depravity

Highlights the state of being morally corrupt or evil.

FAQs

How can I use "pure malice" in a sentence?

You can use "pure malice" to describe actions or intentions motivated solely by a desire to cause harm. For instance: "The villain's plan was driven by "pure malice", with no regard for the consequences".

What are some alternatives to "pure malice"?

Alternatives to "pure malice" include "sheer malevolence", "utter wickedness", or "unadulterated spite", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "pure malice" or should I use another adjective?

"Pure malice" is grammatically correct and commonly used. The adjective "pure" emphasizes the unadulterated nature of the malice. Other adjectives like "sheer" or "utter" can also be used for similar effect.

What distinguishes "pure malice" from simple "malice"?

"Pure malice" suggests that the malice is the sole and untainted motivation behind an action, without any other contributing factors. Simple "malice" might imply ill will alongside other motivations or justifications.