Violence
/ˈvaɪələns/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community, that either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation.
/ˈvaɪələns/
The use of physical force to cause harm or damage.
The movie was criticized for its graphic violence.
💡 Simply: Violence is when people use force or actions to hurt others or damage things. Think about a fight in a playground or a TV show with lots of action. It's when someone is mean and uses their strength in a bad way, which is against safety and what we want.
👶 For kids: When someone hurts someone else on purpose, it's violence. Like when someone pushes or hits.
More Examples
Violence is never the answer.
He condemned the violence and called for calm.
How It's Used
"The police are trying to prevent violence in the city."
"Reports of violence increased after the protest."
An act or instance of using force or causing harm, often in a way that is considered illegal or unjustified.
/ˈvaɪələns/
An instance of violent action or behavior.
He was a victim of domestic violence.
💡 Simply: Violence isn't just the idea of hurting someone; it's a time when someone actually does it, like in a fight or an act of aggression. Think about a boxing match, a conflict in a movie or what can happen in some types of protests—that is violence in action.
👶 For kids: When someone does something that hurts someone else, like a punch or a kick.
More Examples
The authorities are investigating the recent acts of violence.
The film depicted extreme violence.
How It's Used
"The community is working to reduce violence among young people."
"The political rally was marred by acts of violence."
Synonyms
Aggression
Assault
Brutality
Cruelty
Force
Attack
Brawl
Combat
Fight
Idioms & expressions
domestic violence
Violence occurring within a household, often between spouses or partners.
"Domestic violence is a serious crime that affects many families."
gun violence
Violence that involves the use of guns.
"Gun violence is a serious problem in many cities."
From Old French *violence*, from Latin *violentia*, from *violens* ('vehement, forceful'), from *vis* ('force, power').
The term has been used since the late 13th century, initially referring to a forceful exercise of power.
Memory tip
Imagine a fist clenching tightly—violence is a forceful action causing pain.