Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //bruːtəlaɪˈzeɪʃən//
KK: /brutəlɪˈzeɪʃən/
Definition
The process or act of making someone or something cruel or violent.
Example
The brutalization of the prisoners was condemned by human rights organizations.
Conversation

Did you hear about the news story involving the brutalization of that poor animal?

Yeah, it was really upsetting to read about.

I can't believe people can be so cruel; it's hard to understand such brutalization in our society.

I know, it's really disturbing and makes me want to do something to help.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dehumanization
violence
oppression
Antonyms
humanization
compassion
kindness
Root Explanation
Brutalization → It is formed from "brutalis" (from Latin, meaning rough or savage) and the suffix "-ization" (meaning the process of making or becoming). The word "brutalization" refers to the process of making something brutal or savage in nature.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'brutal' which means rough or savage, and remember that 'brutalization' is the process of making something more brutal.
Visually Confused Words
ruralization
reutilization
mutualization
utilization
retaliation
realization
oralization
dualization