Evil meaning in English

Learn how to use Evil correctly with Gymglish.
Test and improve your English. Start your free trial today.

TEST YOUR ENGLISH Free trial and no commitment to buy
4,7 on App Store, Play Store and Trustpilot More than 8 million learners worldwide

Definition

evil: wicked, vile, wrong, bad, immoral, diabolical adjective

Examples

  • "Managers: my unbiased opinion on these evil scum"
  • "I am devoted to various evil causes and ventures."
  • "this is a diminished chord... it sounds… evil."
  • "Evil twins?"
  • "People carve faces into pumpkins to frighten off evil spirits."
Exercise 1
Fill in the blanks below with words from the conversation you just heard

Someone who works independently, or sells their services to employers without a long-term commitment to any of them is called a .
This term describes someone or something bad, wrong, or wicked. The devil is considered to be .
This term describes a project, enterprise or undertaking. Dr. Badguy explains that he is dedicated to various causes and .

Fill in the blanks below with words from the conversation you just heard

Someone who works independently, or sells their services to employers without a long-term commitment to any of them is called a freelance 1.
This term describes someone or something bad, wrong, or wicked. The devil is considered to be evil 2.
This term describes a project, enterprise or undertaking. Dr. Badguy explains that he is dedicated to various causes and ventures 3.
1 freelance: "A freelance" (or freelancer) is someone who works without a long-term contract, or someone who works independently. Freelancers are often journalists, photographers or web-designers, who offer their services to anyone who is willing to pay them. In this dialogue, Dr. Badguy explains to Bruno that he is a "freelance supervillain", in other words he acts as a villain (or bad guy) on a freelance basis. The term "freelance" can be used as a noun, adjective or verb.
2 evil: The term "evil" describes anything which is intrinsically or morally wrong or bad. "Evil" is a word often associated with the devil, who morally opposes everything which is intrinsically good. In this dialogue, Dr. Badguy tells Bruno that he is devoted to various "evil" ventures and causes.
3 ventures: "Venture" is a versatile term. As a noun, "a venture" can describe a project or effort, and is often used in a business context. For example: Bruno embarked upon an interesting business venture with Terrence Cashman. "A venture" is also a type of "adventure" which usually includes an element of risk. The verb "to venture" describes undertaking such a project, enterprise or adventure.
Exercise 2
In this context, what does "tough" mean?

In this context, what does "tough" mean?
"Stubborn" means difficult to move or remove. Sometimes "tough" and "stubborn" are used in similar ways, for example "I can't get this tough/stubborn stain out in the wash" (the stain is difficult to remove). However in this context, Bruno is commenting on Horatio's physical strength.
"Evil" means wicked or immoral. Bruno is not referring to the quality of Horatio's character.
This is correct. When Bruno says "We can do this right now, tough guy. Let's go!", he is challenging Horatio to a fight. He calls him "tough" because he is questioning his strength. Here Bruno uses the term ironically, however a "tough" person is physically strong, resistant or has a high endurance. In another context, "a tough (math problem)" is difficult or challenging.
"Tough" is unrelated to size. The term refers to someone's strength or endurance in this context.
"Stupid" does not mean "tough". A "stupid (person)" is not intelligent, whereas "toughness" is related to physical strength in this context.

Still unsure of the best way to use 'Evil'? Improve your English thanks to our online English lessons. We offer a free test as well as a free level assessment!

What our users say:

Pleasure

         

I enjoy doing my online English lessons. Only ten minutes daily are enough...Thank you!

Innovative

         

I love your innovative method which allows me to learn a new language and have fun at the same time!

Unique

         

Your method is unique! Your courses have helped me to progress and gain confidence during my travels.

Progress

         

Gymglish has allowed me to improve my English. A daily routine I wouldn't miss for anything in the world!

More testimonials.

Test your English with Gymglish today and get a free level assessment

Absolutely free - no strings attached.