revengefully

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /rɪˈvɛnʤfəli/

KK: /rɪˈvɛnʤfəlɪ/

adverb

Definition

In a way that shows a desire to harm someone in return for a wrong done to oneself.

Example

She acted revengefully after being betrayed by her friend.

Conversation

Did you see how he acted when he lost the game?

Yeah, it was a bit much, almost revengefully towards the other team.

I know, right? It’s just a game, no need to take it so seriously.

Exactly! He should focus on improving instead of plotting revenge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

vindictively

retaliatorily

vengefully

Antonyms

forgivingly

mercifully

compassionately

Root Explanation

Revengefully → It is formed from "revenge" (from Old French *revenchier*, meaning to take vengeance) and "-fully" (meaning full of). The word "revengefully" means full of the desire to take vengeance.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'full of' ('-fully') the desire to 'take vengeance' ('revenge'). This helps you remember that revengefully describes someone acting with a strong desire for revenge.

Visually Confused Words