spiteful
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “spiteful” mean?
adjective.showing or caused by malice.
SAT Usage
the term is often found in passages discussing interpersonal conflict or emotional dynamics. It emphasizes a deliberate desire to harm or offend others, suggesting a deeper level of hostility than mere annoyance or anger, distinguishing it from words like "resentful," which conveys bitterness without the intent to harm.
Common Confusions
Spiteful implies a deliberate intent to harm or offend, while resentful usually suggests a feeling of bitterness without the active desire to cause injury.
Do not choose spiteful if the context emphasizes kindness or goodwill rather than showing or caused by malice.
Example Sentences
-
He made spiteful remarks to embarrass her in public.
-
He sent a spiteful message after the argument.