viciousness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "viciousness" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe cruel or violent behavior or attitudes. For example: "The viciousness of the bully's words shocked everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let me share with you a text message I received from a red-top tabloid newspaper executive on Saturday morning: "In almost 30 years on Fleet Street I have never seen broadsheets have a go at each other with such viciousness.

The Guardian

"The scale of viciousness of the abuses being perpetrated by elements on both sides almost defies belief," she said.

The Guardian

Tony Wright, the national affairs editor of the Age newspaper in Melbourne, said: "If you'd hauled a semi-trailer load of fighting rum, a caravan of harlots and a boxing tent into a mining camp on payday, you'd hardly predict the level of crazed viciousness that has busted out in what's left of the heart of the Labor party".

The Guardian

Laddism is an equal-opportunity oppressor – racism, classism, homophobia and transphobia are all part of its portfolio – but the viciousness of its sexism (exemplified by this article's opening quote) reflects a conviction that women need to be put in their place.

The Guardian

Ponyboy is a Greaser who, along with his brothers and his friends, has to cope with the viciousness and brutality of the Socs (the Social Elites) until events are taken too far.

The Guardian

Even Cowell – who was almost unique in being able to get away with his insults because of his campily theatrical tone – has changed, long ago trading in his one-note viciousness for a slightly chummier brand of weary gloom.

The Guardian - Music

You could feel the viciousness.

The Guardian

THE REPUBLICAN PARTY civil war between purists and pragmatists is not over: the viciousness of the 2014 party primary season proves that.

The Economist

But public opinion was shifted, durably, by the contrast between the Lawrences' decency, the viciousness of their son's killers, and the casual incompetence with which police handled the death of a young black man in 1993 London.

The Economist

The book's tour de force is its account of the 1956 uprising in Budapest: the viciousness of the reprisals on both sides, the tantalising glimpse of liberty and the predictable betrayal in Washington.There are few good books about the CIA.

The Economist

The weeks after the election saw a relative lull in violence, punctuated by moments of exceptional viciousness.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts like political conflicts or social issues, use "viciousness" to highlight the extreme and harmful nature of the interactions. This adds a layer of severity and moral judgment to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "viciousness" to describe minor disagreements or playful banter. The term implies a severe level of cruelty or malice, and its use in trivial situations can dilute its impact and appear hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "viciousness" is that of a noun, referring to the quality or state of being vicious. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes cruel or violent behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "viciousness" functions as a noun denoting extreme cruelty or malice. As Ludwig AI indicates, this term is grammatically correct and usable in written English, primarily serving to express disapproval or highlight severe harm. The analysis reveals its common usage in news and media, as well as in encyclopedic contexts. When using "viciousness", ensure the context aligns with its strong connotation, avoiding overuse in trivial situations. Alternatives like "brutality" or "savagery" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. Understanding these distinctions allows for precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cruelty

Highlights the intent to cause suffering or pain.

brutality

Focuses on the physical violence and cruelty of an action or behavior.

savagery

Emphasizes the uncivilized and brutal nature of the action.

inhumanity

Emphasizes the lack of compassion and empathy.

ferocity

Suggests a wild and intense level of violence or aggression.

ruthlessness

Focuses on the lack of pity or compassion in carrying out actions.

malice

Emphasizes the intention or desire to do evil; ill will.

atrocity

Highlights an extremely wicked or cruel act, typically involving violence or injury.

depravity

Focuses on moral corruption and wickedness.

wickedness

Highlights the immoral and evil nature of the behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "viciousness" in a sentence?

You can use "viciousness" to describe extreme cruelty or violence. For example: "The "viciousness" of the attack shocked the community."

What are some synonyms for "viciousness"?

Synonyms for "viciousness" include "brutality", "savagery", and "cruelty". Choose the synonym that best fits the specific context.

Is "viciousness" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "viciousness" is appropriate for formal writing when describing severe or malicious actions. However, ensure the tone remains objective and avoids sensationalism.

What's the difference between "viciousness" and "meanness"?

"Viciousness" implies a greater degree of cruelty and malice than "meanness". "Meanness" refers to petty or spiteful behavior, while "viciousness" indicates extreme cruelty and a desire to cause significant harm.