violent
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈaɪələnt/
US
- /ˈvaɪələnt/
- /ˈvaɪlənt/
Description
- forceful
- aggressive
- destructive
"Violent" describes people, actions, or events that involve strong force and cause harm or damage. It is more than just being strong; it usually suggests an extreme kind of force that hurts people, damages things, or feels dangerous. You might describe a storm as violent if the winds are strong enough to tear down trees, or an argument as turning violent when people start hitting each other. The word is most often used for physical harm, but it can also describe something very sudden or extreme, like a violent reaction or a violently worded letter.
The word "violent" describes people, actions, or events that use strong force in a way that causes harm, damage, or fear. It is not simply about strength. It is about force used in a dangerous, harmful, or destructive way.
People often use it for physical acts: a violent crime, a violent attack, or a violent struggle. In these cases, it clearly suggests injury or the threat of injury. If someone is called violent, it usually means that person is likely to hurt others or use force in a dangerous way.
The word is also used for things that are not people. A violent storm is one with great force and destruction. A violent explosion is sudden and powerful. A violent reaction can be an extreme physical response, such as a body reacting badly to a drug, illness, or poison. In these examples, the idea is not moral blame but uncontrolled power or intensity.
Sometimes the word is used more broadly for language or feelings, as in a violently worded message or a violent anger, but even then it still suggests something harsh, extreme, and damaging. Overall, "violent" is a strong word. It usually points to harm, destruction, or force that has gone beyond what is safe or calm.
Examples
- 1
Protest
The protest turned violent after a group of people started throwing bottles.
- 2
Personal violence
He was charged after becoming violent toward a security guard.
- 3
Crime context
The mayor promised to do more to reduce violent crime in the area.
- 4
Film content
This film is too violent for young children.
- 5
Severe weather
The coast was hit by violent storms overnight.
- 6
Physical symptom
She had a violent cough and could hardly finish a sentence.
Meaning
violent here
very strong
- 7
Online reaction
The actor's comments triggered a violent reaction online.
Phrase
violent reaction
an extremely angry or emotional response
- 8
Public opposition
There was violent opposition to the plan to close the local hospital.
Phrase
violent opposition
extremely strong anger against something
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- violentadjective