brutal

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective (of persons or their actions) able or disposed to inflict pain or suffering
  2. adjective harsh
  3. adjective resembling a beast; showing lack of human sensibility

Etymology

From Medieval Latin brutalis (“savage, stupid”), from Latin brūtus (“dull, stupid”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

barbarous, cruel, fell, roughshod, savage, vicious

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