savage
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.very violent, cruel, or severe.
adj.characterized by brutality, ferocity, or a lack of restraint.
Simple“The dog launched a savage attack on the intruder.”
In context“The dictator was known for his savage treatment of political dissidents, often ordering public executions to maintain control through fear.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.wild and not controlled by people.
adj.existing in a natural state; not domesticated or cultivated.
Simple“The explorers were amazed by the savage beauty of the mountains.”
In context“The landscape remained a savage wilderness, untouched by the industrial expansion that had transformed the rest of the continent.”
Antonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
adj.used to describe someone who is very honest or rude in a funny, confident way.
adj.denoting a person or remark that is audaciously blunt, disrespectful, or sarcastic in a way that commands respect or amusement.
Simple“That was a savage comeback; he didn't know what to say.”
In context“Her response to the critic was absolutely savage, effectively ending the debate with a single, perfectly timed insult.”
Teacher's tipThis is very common in internet culture and among younger speakers to praise someone's boldness.
- 04 C2 Proficiency
n.an old, very offensive word for people who live in a simple way without modern technology.
n.a historically derogatory term for members of indigenous or non-industrialized societies; now considered highly offensive in most contexts.
Simple“In old books, explorers often called the local people savages.”
In context“The colonial-era diary frequently refers to the native inhabitants as savages, reflecting the prejudiced attitudes of the time.”
Teacher's tipAvoid using this as a noun to describe people; it is considered racist and offensive in modern English.