revile - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
revile Word Meanings
- to criticize someone in an angry or abusive way
- to speak about someone with contempt
- to blame or scold harshly
revile Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
revile Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈvaɪl/
US
/rɪˈvaɪl/
revile Word Etymology
re- = again + vile = base, worthless. Origin: Latin 'revilare' → Old French 'reviler' → English. Imagine a person pointing at something they consider worthless, saying 'Again, this is vile!'.
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
Revile is a strong verb meaning to criticize someone angrily or with contempt, often in public or moral condemnation. It carries an emotion of disgust or worthlessness, as if the target is morally degraded. It targets a person, policy, or action and signals not just disagreement but a harsh moral judgment. In formal writing, revile can appear in debates or polemics, but in everyday speech it sounds severe and confrontational. Learners should be aware of its intensity and potential for offense, and choose milder synonyms like criticize or condemn when appropriate. Common collocations include revile someone for something and be reviled by others.
Usage Reminders
- Use revile for strong, morally condemnatory attacks
- Avoid with people you know; it's very harsh
- Check register: formal vs. literary contexts
- Pair with for/against constructions: revile someone for a fault
- Be mindful of subject and passive forms: be reviled by critics
- Look for synonyms that fit tone: condemn, criticize, berate
Common Misconceptions
- Revile = simply criticize; it always carries anger
- Be reviled = you are hated for no reason
- Revile and vilify are exact synonyms with no nuance
- Only public figures can be reviled
- Revile is interchangeable with berate in all contexts
Thinking Differences
Revile carries moral outrage in English; it often appears in polemics or historical texts. Learners should note its aggressiveness and may substitute with condemn or criticize in everyday speech.
Learning Tips
- Learn synonyms with nuance: criticize, condemn, berate, vilify
- Note collocations: revile someone for something
- Watch tone: high-intensity word; avoid overuse in casual speech
- Practice both active and passive: be reviled by critics
- Compare with similar verbs in context
- Use in formal/writing contexts first
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'revile' mean?
A.Pleasant
B.Criticize harshly
C.Admire
D.Ignore
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'revile' used correctly?
A.He complimented her without reviling her work.
B.She reviled the beautiful sunset.
C.The teacher reviled the excellent grades of the students.
D.Her positive attitude led her to revile others.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'revile'?
A.Praise
B.Encourage
C.Condemn
D.Respect
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'revile'?
A.Compliment
B.Criticize
C.Insult
D.Scold
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'revile' in a real-life situation?
A.Describe a situation where someone reviled your actions.
B.Explain how one can positively address criticism without reviling others.
C.Discuss the consequences of reviling someone in a work environment.
D.Share an experience of witnessing someone reviling a public figure.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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