rancorous

/'ræɳkərəs/

Friendly

Word: Rancorous

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "rancorous" describes a strong feeling of bitterness or resentment that someone has, often because of a past conflict or unfair treatment. It suggests that the feelings are deep-seated and can last for a long time.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: You can use "rancorous" when talking about someone's feelings or attitudes, especially when they are negative and rooted in past experiences. It is often used in more formal or literary contexts.
• How to use: It usually comes before a noun. For example, "He had a rancorous attitude towards his former colleague."

Example Sentence:

• "The rancorous debate between the politicians made it clear that there was no chance for compromise."

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex sentences, you might say: "Despite the rancorous feelings that lingered from their last argument, they agreed to work together for the project's success."

Word Variants:

• Noun: Rancor (the feeling of bitterness or resentment itself)
  • Example: "She felt a deep rancor towards those who had betrayed her trust."
• Adverb: Rancorously (in a way that shows bitterness)
  • Example: "He spoke rancorously about the decisions made by the committee."

Different Meaning:

While "rancorous" primarily refers to bitterness, the word "rancor" itself can also mean an intense and often mutual hatred or ill will. However, "rancorous" focuses more on the bitterness aspect.

Synonyms:

• Bitter
• Resentful
• Hostile
• Spiteful
• Malicious

Antonyms:

• Forgiving
• Amicable
• Friendly
• Benevolent

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly incorporate "rancorous," but you might encounter phrases like "hold a grudge," which convey a similar meaning of lingering resentment.

Summary:

To sum up, "rancorous" is used to describe a strong, lasting resentment or bitterness towards someone or something, usually due to past grievances.

Academic

Adjective

1. showing deep-seated resentment
   • preserve...from rancourous envy of the rich- Aldous Huxley