Brutal Meaning

Meaning of Word

Brutal refers to something that is harsh, violent, or cruel, often in a way that causes suffering or harm. It can describe actions, behavior, or conditions that are severe and lacking in compassion.

Definitions and Meaning in English

Extremely violent or cruel in nature.
Harsh, severe, or unrelenting.
Lacking in kindness, mercy, or sensitivity.
Rough or harsh in manner or behavior.

History and Origin

The word “brutal” comes from the Latin “brutalis,” meaning “of a beast” or “savage,” which is derived from “brutus,” meaning “heavy, dull, or stupid.” It originally referred to something animalistic or beastly, evoking images of untamed violence or cruelty. Over time, it broadened in use to describe not only physical violence but also any harsh or merciless behavior or conditions.

Detailed Explanation

Brutal is commonly used to describe behavior or actions that are intensely violent, aggressive, or lacking in compassion. It can apply to both physical actions (such as a brutal attack) and emotional or social situations (like brutal criticism). The term emphasizes the severity and harshness of something, often highlighting the absence of kindness or mercy. For instance, a brutal regime may involve severe punishments and repression, while brutal conditions could refer to extreme environments that cause significant suffering.

Example Sentences

The brutal treatment of prisoners in the camp was widely condemned.
The storm was so brutal that it caused widespread destruction.
He was criticized for his brutal honesty, which offended many people.
The brutal reality of the situation became clear after the investigation.
The attack on the innocent civilians was described as a brutal act of terrorism.
The team’s brutal performance in the final match secured their victory.
She endured a brutal workout routine to prepare for the competition.
The brutal cold of the winter made survival difficult for many.
The dictator’s brutal rule left the nation in turmoil for decades.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

Savage – Wild or untamed, often used to describe violent or uncivilized behavior.
Ruthless – Lacking compassion or pity, especially when pursuing goals.
Cruel – Intentionally causing pain or suffering to others.
Ferocious – Fierce and violent, often with a sense of intense aggression.
Harsh – Extremely severe or rough, often in terms of treatment or conditions.

Related Words with Short Explanation

Violent – Involving physical force intended to harm or destroy.
Inhuman – Lacking compassion or humanity, often referring to brutal behavior.
Brutality – The quality of being brutal; cruelty or savagery.
Tyrannical – Describing a ruler or regime that is oppressive and cruel, often in a brutal manner.
Uncompromising – Reluctant to make concessions or soften one’s approach, sometimes leading to brutal results.

More Matches with Short Explanation

Brutal force – Physical power used aggressively or with extreme violence.
Brutal punishment – An excessively harsh or severe form of punishment.
Brutal nature – Referring to something that is inherently violent or merciless.
Brutal conditions – Extremely harsh and difficult conditions, often causing suffering.
Brutal tactics – Aggressive and severe methods, often used in combat or competition.

Antonyms

Gentle – Soft, kind, and mild in nature or behavior, the opposite of brutal.
Compassionate – Showing empathy and kindness, the opposite of cruelty.
Mild – Not severe or harsh, the opposite of brutal conditions.
Merciful – Showing forgiveness and leniency, in contrast to brutality.
Kind – Having a caring and considerate nature, unlike brutal behavior.