# malevolently

**Pronunciation:** məˈlevələntli · muh-LEV-uh-lent-lee

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a manner showing a desire to cause harm, distress, or misfortune to others.

## Examples

- She smiled malevolently as she watched her rival struggle with the difficult task.
- The dark clouds hovered malevolently over the valley, threatening a violent storm.
- He spoke malevolently about his former colleagues, hoping to ruin their reputations.

## Synonyms

- meanly — Simple, general term for unkind behavior.
- maliciously — Implies a specific intent to cause damage or pain.
- viciously — Suggests aggressive, cruel, or violent intent.
- malignantly — Often implies a persistent, harmful, or infectious influence.
- venomously — Suggests intense, bitter, and poisonous hatred.

## Antonyms

- kindly — The standard opposite for helpful, gentle behavior.
- benevolently — The direct formal opposite, meaning wishing well to others.

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