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.
His evil is on a much smaller scale, and so is his vision.
From Salon • May 3, 2026
The woman told the jury the men were "evil" and had "ruined" her life.
From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026
A pretty evil and extraordinary set piece showing what the Sahara allows an act that really wants to use it.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026
Totalitarian abuses of power and the banal ascendancy of evil aren’t stopped with mere pity, she maintained, but with thoughtfulness.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026
The ancient steps creak like some evil violin.
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
![]()
Vocabulary lists containing evil
Bush's Address on 9/11
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
"Frankenstein" and "How Frankenstein Began"
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
"The Flying Machine" by Ray Bradbury
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!