devil (B1)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈdev(ə)l/
Definition
A supernatural being, often depicted as evil or malevolent, that is considered an enemy of God and humanity.
Examples
In many religions, the devil is seen as the embodiment of evil.
He was accused of making a pact with the devil to gain his talents.
The story warned against succumbing to the temptations of the devil.
How to Use devil
- devil's advocate (idiom)
- A person who takes a position they do not agree with, for the sake of debate or to explore an alternative viewpoint. — "Let me play devil's advocate for a moment: what if this plan actually fails?"
- talk of the devil (idiom)
- Said when a person appears just after being mentioned. — "Well, talk of the devil! We were just discussing you, Sarah."
- the devil to pay (idiom)
- Serious trouble or consequences that must be faced. — "If this project fails, there'll be the devil to pay."
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