Definition of Malign
Quick Meaning of Malign
To say bad or cruel things about someone, usually behind their back. Similar to slander and libel but more general—doesn't require the statement to be false.
Detailed Definition of Malign
To speak ill of someone; to say damaging or unkind things about someone, often falsely; to slander or defame.
How to Pronounce Malign
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: muh-LYN. The first syllable is unstressed like the 'a' in 'about': mə-. The second syllable rhymes with 'line'.
Watch out: Learners often stress the first syllable (MAL-ign) instead of the second (muh-LYN). Remember: muh-LYN, not MAL-ign.
Origin and Etymology of Malign
From Latin 'malignare' (to act maliciously). 'Malus' (bad) + '-ign' (related to 'sign', omen). Entered English in 14th century. Also used as adjective meaning 'evil'.
How to Use Malign in a Sentence
Each example shows “malign” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Critics have maligned his character unfairly for decades.”
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“The media was accused of maligning the defendant throughout the trial.”
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“It is unethical to malign someone's professional reputation without evidence.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Malign
Common Synonyms for Malign
Smart Synonyms for Malign — When to Use Each
- slander
- More specific legal term for false spoken statements
- denigrate
- To criticize unfairly, emphasizing disparagement rather than falsity
- revile
- To speak about with contempt; stronger emotional tone
Common Collocations with Malign
These phrases pair with “malign” in everyday English:
- malign someone's character
- malign someone's reputation
- malign someone's motives
- malign an enemy
- malign someone's name
Common Mistakes When Using Malign
Even fluent speakers slip up with “malign”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She maligned about his behavior.
- ✓ Correct: She maligned his behavior. / She spoke ill of his behavior.
- Why: 'Malign' is a transitive verb; use direct object, not 'about'. Say 'maligned his behavior' or 'maligned him for his behavior'.
- ✗ Wrong: Don't malign in public.
- ✓ Correct: Don't malign anyone in public. / Don't say bad things in public.
- Why: 'Malign' requires a direct object (who/what you're maligning). It cannot stand alone as 'malign' without an object.
- ✗ Wrong: The malign of his reputation was unjust.
- ✓ Correct: The maligning of his reputation was unjust. / Maligning his reputation was unjust.
- Why: Use the gerund 'maligning' not the verb 'malign' as a noun in this structure. 'Malign' as a noun is rare in modern English.
Words Confused With Malign
- Malign vs Slander/libel: 'Malign' is broader and doesn't require falsity; 'slander' (spoken) and 'libel' (written) are strictly false statements. 'Malign' can mean harsh truthful criticism too.
Other Forms of Malign
- Verb: malign
- Adjective: malign, malignant
Frequently Asked Questions About Malign
What is the meaning of "Malign"?
To say bad or cruel things about someone, usually behind their back. Similar to slander and libel but more general—doesn't require the statement to be false.
How do you pronounce "Malign"?
The IPA is /məˈlaɪn/. Stress the second syllable: muh-LYN. The first syllable is unstressed like the 'a' in 'about': mə-. The second syllable rhymes with 'line'.
What part of speech is "Malign"?
"Malign" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Malign"?
Common synonyms include slander, libel, defame.
How do you use "Malign" in a sentence?
For example: "Critics have maligned his character unfairly for decades."