Word: Vitriolic
Part of Speech: Adjective
Basic Meaning:
The word "vitriolic" describes something that is very harsh, angry, or cruel, especially in the way people speak or write. It can also refer to substances, particularly strong acids that can burn or eat away materials.
Usage Instructions:
Use "vitriolic" when talking about comments, criticism, or writing that is extremely negative or hurtful.
It can also describe a strong acid in a scientific context.
Examples:
In a sentence: "The politician's vitriolic speech caused a lot of controversy."
In a sentence referring to a substance: "The scientist handled the vitriolic acid with great care to avoid any accidents."
Advanced Usage:
In more advanced contexts, "vitriolic" can describe a tone that is not just negative but also deeply cutting or harmful. It can be used in literary criticism or discussions about public debates.
Word Variants:
Vitriol (noun): This refers to a bitterly abusive feeling or expression. For example: "Her vitriol in the article was surprising."
Vitriolically (adverb): This describes doing something in a vitriolic manner. For example: "He criticized the movie vitriolically."
Different Meanings:
Literal: Referring to strong acids (like sulfuric acid) that can corrode materials.
Figurative: Describing speech or writing that is very bitter, caustic, or filled with anger.
Synonyms:
Caustic
Acrid
Bitter
Scathing
Harsh
Cutting
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "vitriolic" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases like: - "A tongue like a razor" – meaning someone speaks very harshly or cuttingly. - "Throw shade" – meaning to criticize someone indirectly or subtly, which can sometimes be vitriolic.
Summary:
"Vitriolic" is used to describe very harsh and bitter speech or writing, as well as strong acids in a scientific context.