curse
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.a magic spell or wish that someone hopes will cause bad things to happen to another person.
n.a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something.
Simple“In the story, the old witch put a curse on the prince that turned him into a frog.”
In context“Local folklore suggests that a curse was placed upon the tomb, promising misfortune to anyone who dared to disturb the ancient remains.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a very rude or offensive word that people use when they are angry or upset.
n.a profane or obscene word used to express anger, frustration, or contempt.
Simple“He shouted a loud curse when he accidentally dropped the heavy box on his foot.”
In context“The broadcast was interrupted by a string of curses from the crowd, forcing the producers to cut the audio feed immediately.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.something that causes a lot of trouble or unhappiness over a long time.
n.a cause of great harm, persistent misfortune, or severe affliction.
Simple“The lack of clean water has been a curse for the small village for many years.”
In context“The country's vast natural resources proved to be a curse, as they fueled decades of corruption and internal conflict rather than prosperity.”
Synonyms - 04 B1 Intermediate
v.to use rude or offensive words because you are angry.
v.to utter offensive or profane language, often as an expression of anger or frustration.
Simple“She started to curse under her breath when she realized she had missed the last bus.”
In context“The coach was warned by the referee after he continued to curse at the players from the sidelines.”
UsageOften used as an intransitive verb without a direct object.
Synonymsswearblaspheme - 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to say magic words or hope that something bad happens to someone.
v.to invoke supernatural harm or evil upon a person or object.
Simple“The villain cursed the hero, promising that they would never find happiness.”
In context“The dying man cursed his enemies with his final breath, leaving a chilling atmosphere in the room.”
UsageTransitive verb requiring a direct object.
From Middle English curse, kors, cors, curs, from Old English cors, curs (“curse”), of unknown origin.
From Middle English cursen, corsen, coursen, from Old English corsian, cursian (“to curse”), from the noun (see above).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.