malign - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
malign Word Meanings
- to speak harmful truths about someone
- to slander or defame
- to intend harm or evil
malign Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
malign Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/məˈlaɪn/
US
/məˈlaɪn/
malign Word Etymology
mal- = bad + lign = to bind. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a dark shadow binding someone with ropes of lies and deceit.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Malign is a verb that means to speak about someone in a way that harms their reputation, often by stating damaging, misleading, or false information. It also covers slandering or defaming someone, and can imply an intent to harm them through words or actions. The sense of speaking harmful truths is rare and literary; most uses suggest malice and deception. Etymology-wise, mal- means bad and lign means to bind, tracing back to Latin and Old French before entering English. In usage, you might hear about a smear campaign that maligns a opponent, a columnist who maligns a rival, or someone trying to malign another person's character. It remains fairly formal or old-fashioned, not common in everyday speech.
Usage Reminders
- Malign is transitive and targets a person or their reputation
- Usually implies malice and sometimes false or misleading information
- Common objects: a person, a colleague's reputation, an opponent's character
- More formal or literary than everyday words like slander or defame
- Often found in political, legal, or academic contexts
- Do not confuse with harming in general; focus is on reputational damage
Common Misconceptions
- Malign is the same as slander or defame; it always means untrue statements
- It only applies to public figures like politicians or celebrities
- It can refer to harming someone’s physical well-being, not just reputational harm
- It is a casual everyday verb you would use in conversation
- Malign only describes things people say, not their intent
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Remember malign is about intent to harm a person’s reputation, not just any harm
- Use with a direct object, usually a person or their reputation
- Distinguish from slander/diffame; malign carries a formal tone
- Be mindful of context: politics, media, or legal discussions
- Check that any harmful claim is clearly framed as intended to damage reputation, not casual criticism
- Pronounce /məˈlīn/ with a long i; don’t confuse with malignant (adj)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'malign'?
A.To harm or speak evil of
B.To speak favorably
C.To praise
D.To forgive
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'malign' used correctly?
A.His actions were seen as malign by those around him.
B.He maliciously helped his friend.
C.The teacher praised the student's malign behavior.
D.She always tried to malign others with kindness.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'malign'?
A.Neutral
B.Benevolent
C.Beneficial
D.Malevolent
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'malign'?
A.Compliment
B.Defame
C.Slander
D.Praise
Step 5: Mastery
In what context would you use the word 'malign'?
A.Describing harmful intentions
B.Discussing positive qualities
C.Expressing goodwill
D.Sharing a funny story
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