rife

What does “rife” mean?

adjective.(especially of something undesirable or harmful) of common occurrence; widespread.

SAT Usage

this term is commonly found in passages discussing societal issues, environmental concerns, or negative trends. It emphasizes the prevalence of undesirable conditions or phenomena, suggesting not just occurrence but an alarming or troubling extent, distinguishing it from similar words like "common," which lacks the negative connotation.

Common Confusions

Rife implies a troubling prevalence of something negative, while prevalent usually suggests a widespread occurrence without the inherent negativity or harmfulness associated with it.

Example Sentences

• Smallpox was rife after the siege had been lifted.

• These woodlands are rife with red deer.

• Many post-colonial governments were rife with lawlessness and corruption.

• The snowdrops grow rife on the slopes of Mount Pembroke.

• The city was rife with rumors.