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predatory

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈprɛdəˌtɔri/

KK: /ˈprɛdəˌtɔri/

adjective
Definition

Describing an animal or person that lives by hunting or taking advantage of others for their own benefit.


Example

The predatory behavior of the hawk made it a skilled hunter in the wild.


Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more predatory

Superlative: most predatory


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about that documentary on predatory animals?
Sloth B
No, I haven't seen it yet! What was it about?
Sloth A
It explored how some creatures are really predatory in their hunting techniques.
Sloth B
That sounds fascinating! I love learning about animal behavior.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rapacious
voracious
exploitative
Antonyms
nurturing
protective
defensive
Root Explanation

Predatory → It is formed from "praeda" (meaning prey) and the suffix "-ory" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word "predatory" describes something that is characterized by preying upon others.

Memory Tip

Think of 'prey' ('praeda') to remember that 'predatory' refers to something that hunts or preys on others.

Visually Confused Words
depredatory
prefatory
precatory
nonpredatory
prefactory
depredator
redactor
prelatry
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