Is vilify a formal word?

Yes, vilify is fairly formal. You often see it in writing, news, and speeches.

What is the difference between vilify and criticize?

Criticize means to point out faults. Vilify means to attack someone in a very unfair or harsh way.

Can I use vilify in business writing?

Yes, but only for very strong negative attacks. It sounds serious and often legal or public.

Is vilify the same as slander?

Not exactly. Slander is spoken false damage to reputation. Vilify is broader and can mean harsh unfair attack in speech or writing.

← Dictionary

vilify

/ˈvɪl.ɪ.faɪ/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To speak or write about someone in a very bad and unfair way. It means to attack their character with harsh criticism or lies.

The article tried to vilify the minister.
Do not vilify her without proof.
They vilified him after the scandal.

Adinary Nuance

Vilify is stronger and harsher than criticize or blame. You use it when someone is attacked unfairly or made to look very bad. It is close to slander and defame, but vilify can be broader and does not always mean a legal false claim. Writers often choose it for hostile public attacks, especially in news or politics.

In other languages

Vietnamese: bôi nhọ
Spanish: vilipendiar
Chinese: 诋毁
Japanese: 中傷する
Korean: 중상하다

Etymology

Vilify comes from Late Latin vilificare, meaning 'to make cheap or base.' It entered English in the 16th century.

Common phrases

vilify someonevilify a rivalpublicly vilifyunfairly vilify

Synonyms

defame slander disparage criticize

Related words

insult attack smear libel

Frequently asked questions

Is vilify a formal word?: Yes, vilify is fairly formal. You often see it in writing, news, and speeches.
What is the difference between vilify and criticize?: Criticize means to point out faults. Vilify means to attack someone in a very unfair or harsh way.
Can I use vilify in business writing?: Yes, but only for very strong negative attacks. It sounds serious and often legal or public.
Is vilify the same as slander?: Not exactly. Slander is spoken false damage to reputation. Vilify is broader and can mean harsh unfair attack in speech or writing.