revulsion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
revulsion Word Meanings
- a strong feeling of disgust or repugnance
- a sense of deep aversion
- a reaction of intense dislike
revulsion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
revulsion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈvʌl.ʃən/
US
/rɪˈvʌl.ʃən/
revulsion Word Etymology
Root decomposition: re- (again) + vuls (to pull away) + -ion (noun suffix). Historical origin: Latin 'revulsio' → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person pulling away from something horrific, their face twisted in disgust as they recoil, representing a strong reaction to something repulsive.
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
Revulsion is a strong feeling of disgust or repugnance, often accompanied by a physical recoil. It can describe both sensory disgust and moral outrage, and it is usually more intense than a simple dislike or aversion. People feel revulsion toward things that violate their deep sense of cleanliness, safety, or ethics, such as a gruesome scene, a betrayal, or a shocking image. In sentences you might say 'She felt a wave of revulsion at the sight' or 'He turned away in revulsion.' The noun commonly collocates with prepositions like at, toward, or from, and you’ll see it in formal writing, journalism, and academic contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Use revulsion for a very strong, formal sense of disgust
- Commonly with at/toward/from to indicate the target of the reaction
- Often paired with physical reactions or moral judgments
- More intense than dislike or aversion
- Avoid using for everyday mild annoyance; reserve for striking images or actions
Common Misconceptions
- It is just a milder form of dislike
- It describes only physical disgust, not moral or ethical outrage
- It is appropriate for everyday, casual speech
- It can be used interchangeably with disgust, aversion, or repulsion in all contexts
- It has the same meaning as revoltion or revolt (root confusion)
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, revulsion marks a formal, intense level of disgust that often conveys a physical recoil; note its collocations and avoid using it for mild annoyances.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core meaning: strong disgust or repugnance
- Note the common prepositions: revulsion at, toward, from
- Pair with synonyms: disgust, abhorrence, repugnance
- Use in formal writing or journalism
- Differentiate from revolutions (roots) and from mere dislike
- Practice with visual or moral scenarios to feel the intensity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'revulsion'?
A.A strong feeling of disgust or repulsion
B.A feeling of happiness and excitement
C.A type of food or dish
D.A method of teaching
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the word 'revulsion'.
A.She felt revulsion at the sight of the abandoned house.
B.The child's revulsion for candy made him refuse the treat.
C.His revulsion for the project led him to complete it enthusiastically.
D.The movie was filled with revulsion and laughter, making it a hit.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'revulsion'?
A.Disgust
B.Attraction
C.Happiness
D.Excitement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'revulsion'?
A.Attraction
B.Antipathy
C.Dislike
D.Loathing
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel revulsion?
A.After seeing the animal cruelty documentary, she was overwhelmed by emotions.
B.The dish was not appealing at all, and he felt that it was made perfectly.
C.Feeling sickened by the thought of it, he decided to walk away from the scene.
D.He enjoyed the thrilling roller coaster ride, feeling exhilarated.
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