CEFR C1

sadism

noun

Meaning

A condition or behavior in which a person derives pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.

Examples

His enjoyment of others' suffering was a clear sign of sadism.
The court heard evidence of extreme sadism during the trial.

Synonyms: cruelty, masochism, perversion, depravity

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sadism (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈseɪˌdɪz.əm/

Definition

A condition or behavior in which a person derives pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.

Examples

His enjoyment of others' suffering was a clear sign of sadism.
The court heard evidence of extreme sadism during the trial.
Some psychological theories explore the roots of sadism in early childhood experiences.

How to Use sadism

sadism and masochism (collocation): The pairing of the two related psychological concepts. — "The film's controversial themes included sadism and masochism."

Synonyms of sadism

Words with a similar meaning to sadism:

Antonyms of sadism

Words with the opposite meaning to sadism:

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