evil
Usage
What are other ways to say evil?
Evil applies to that which violates or leads to the violation of moral law: evil practices. Ill now appears mainly in certain fixed expressions, with a milder implication than that in evil: ill will; ill-natured. Wicked implies willful and determined doing of what is very wrong: a wicked plan. Bad is the broadest and simplest term: a bad man; bad habits.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Taylor and Pauly want to set the record straight about rattlesnakes, whose rep as evil or villainous serpents is undeserved, they say.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
“They think we’re these evil business owners,” she said, shuddering.
From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026
But her fan-favorite turn as the voodoo-wielding evil Aunt Gladys in horror hit "Weapons" has made her a TikTok star -- and an Oscar winner for best supporting actress.
From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026
The universal message of Purim is prayer for the protective hand of God when confronted with evil, and the importance of men and women willing to take up arms to confront that evil.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026
“I know, Abuela. Like the way you’re always trying to ward off the evil eye.”
From "Across So Many Seas" by Ruth Behar
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
