Brutal – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Brutal (adjective)

Brutal is an adjective that describes something harsh, cruel, or extremely violent. It often implies an absence of mercy or compassion emphasizing the severity or rawness of a situation or action.

Examples

• The brutal storm caused severe flooding in the area.
• His brutal honesty hurt her feelings deeply.
• The fight became brutal with no mercy shown.
• The brutal conditions of the prison shocked everyone.
• The brutal dictator ruled with fear and oppression.
• The brutal attack left him hospitalized for weeks.
• Her brutal rejection of his offer was heartbreaking.
• The brutal treatment of the animals was condemned worldwide.

Meaning

• Harsh
• Cruel
• Violent

Pronunciation

• UK: /ˈbruːtl/ (BROO-tuhl)
• US: /ˈbruːtl/ (BROO-tuhl)

Synonyms

• Savage
• Cruel
• Violent
• Ruthless
• Fierce
• Heartless
• Inhuman
• Merciless
• Barbaric
• Vicious
• Brutish
• Aggressive
• Unforgiving
• Ferocious

Usage Tips for Brutal

• It is used to describe severe or violent actions.
• It often implies a lack of compassion or mercy.
• Avoid using it for trivial or minor situations.
• It can describe both physical and emotional cruelty.
• Best used for emphasizing extreme harshness.

Origin

Brutal (1700-1800):

It is derived from the Latin brutalis, meaning stupid or insensible.

Similar Words to Brutal

• Savage
• Ruthless
• Violent
• Fierce
• Barbaric
• Cruel
• Heartless
• Vicious
• Brutish
• Inhumane

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of brutal in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, brutal means ظالم or وحشی.

Q: How do we use brutal in a sentence?

Ans: The brutal attack left the victim with serious injuries, shocking everyone in the neighbourhood.

Q: What’s the difference between brutal and savage?

Ans: Brutal emphasizes harshness, while savage conveys primal, untamed violence.

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