violence
VEYE-luhns
Violence (noun) means Physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill. Example: “Teachers worked hard to stop violence in the playground before it spread.”
noun
1
Physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill.
"Teachers worked hard to stop violence in the playground before it spread."
"The protest turned violent, with clashes between police and demonstrators."
"The film was criticised for its graphic violence."
How to use violence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPhysical force used to harm someone or something.
Common pairings
domestic violence
an act of violence
the threat of violence
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Word forms
- Plural
- violences
- Third person singular
- violences
- Past tense
- violenced
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Teachers worked hard to stop _____ in the playground before it spread.
Etymology
From Old French violence, from Latin violentia, from violēns, "violent."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for violence
See all rhymes for violence →Frequently asked questions
What does “violence” mean?
The word “violence” means physical force intended to hurt, damage, or kill. In plain terms, physical force used to harm someone or something.
How do you pronounce “violence”?
“Violence” is pronounced VEYE-luhns (/ˈvaɪ.(ə.)ləns/ in IPA).
How do you use “violence” in a sentence?
Here is “violence” used in a sentence: “The film was criticised for its graphic violence.”
What is the opposite of “violence”?
The opposite of “violence” — its antonyms — are peace and nonviolence.
What part of speech is “violence”?
“Violence” is a noun.
Where does the word “violence” come from?
The word “violence” comes from Latin. From Old French violence, from Latin violentia, from violēns, "violent.".
Is “violence” a common word?
“Violence” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What are the types of violence?
Violence is often grouped by form and target. Common categories include physical violence (force that injures the body), domestic violence (harm within a household), and collective violence such as war or riots. Experts also recognize psychological and verbal forms, though the core dictionary sense centers on physical force meant to harm.
What is the difference between violence and aggression?
Aggression is hostile intent or behavior that may or may not turn physical — angry words, threats, or a forceful attitude. Violence is the physical force itself, meant to hurt, damage, or kill. Aggression can build up to violence, but a person can be aggressive without ever using violence.
What is the opposite of violence?
The clearest opposites are peace and nonviolence — resolving conflict without physical force. Related terms include gentleness, calm, and harmony. Where violence uses force to harm, its opposite settles differences through patience, dialogue, or restraint. Movements built on nonviolence, such as peaceful protest, deliberately reject force as a means to an end.
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