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malice

/ˈmælɪs/noun

The wish to hurt someone or see them suffer, or pleasure taken in their misfortune.

Example sentences

  • “Her teasing was playful, with no malice behind it.”
  • “He spread the rumor out of pure malice, hoping to ruin her reputation.”

In law, 'with malice aforethought' means the harm was planned in advance.

Synonyms for malice

  • spite
  • ill will
  • malevolence
  • hatred

Antonyms

Related words

malevolentWanting to hurt others or wishing them harm.malignantDescribing a tumor or disease that is cancerous, grows quickly, and can spread to other parts of the body.malaiseA general feeling that things are not going well, with low energy and little hope, often shared by a whole group, economy or society.malwareComputer programs created to do harm or act against the user's wishes.manipulateTo control or influence someone in a clever, unfair, or dishonest way for your own benefit.lurkTo hide and wait quietly, often in order to attack by surprise.