Here are some synonyms for "hatred" and their explanations:
1. Animosity
- Meaning: Animosity refers to a strong feeling of dislike or hostility. It often implies a mutual ill - will between individuals or groups. For example, "There was a long - standing animosity between the two rival football teams, which led to fierce competition on the field."
- Usage: This word is commonly used to describe a feud or a conflict - ridden relationship. It emphasizes the active dislike and the potential for confrontation.
2. Antipathy
- Meaning: Antipathy is a deep - seated aversion or dislike. It's a more instinctive or natural feeling of opposition towards something or someone. For example, "She had an antipathy towards spiders, and would always scream when she saw one."
- Usage: It's often used to express a personal distaste that may not necessarily lead to open hostility. It can be based on a variety of factors such as appearance, behavior, or values.
3. Loathing
- Meaning: Loathing is an extreme form of disgust and hatred. It involves a feeling of intense repulsion. For example, "His loathing for the dictator was so strong that he dedicated his life to overthrowing the regime."
- Usage: Used when the hatred is accompanied by a sense of physical or moral revulsion. It's a very powerful emotion that can drive a person to take extreme actions.
4. Rancor
- Meaning: Rancor is a bitter, long - lasting hatred. It's often associated with grudges and a sense of deep - seated resentment. For example, "The rancor between the two families had been passed down through generations, and no one could remember how it started."
- Usage: This word is appropriate when describing a hatred that has festered over time and is difficult to resolve. It implies a certain degree of bitterness and tenacity.
5. Malevolence
- Meaning: Malevolence refers to a wish to do harm or evil to others. It's a more malicious form of hatred. For example, "The malevolence in his eyes was terrifying, as if he was plotting something evil."
- Usage: Used to describe a harmful or spiteful kind of hatred, often associated with an intention to cause pain or destruction.