Definition of Vilify
Quick Meaning of Vilify
To say or write very harsh, negative, and insulting things about someone or something, often damaging their reputation deliberately.
Detailed Definition of Vilify
To speak or write about someone or something in an abusively disparaging, defamatory, or scornfully insulting way.
How to Pronounce Vilify
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: VIL-uh-fy. The first 'i' is short as in 'hill', and the final syllable is pronounced with a long 'i' sound.
Watch out: Some learners stress the second syllable (vil-IF-y) instead of the first. Say: VIL-uh-fy.
Origin and Etymology of Vilify
From Latin 'vilificare' (to make vile). 'Vilis' means 'cheap, worthless, vile' + 'facere' means 'to make'. Entered English in 16th century.
How to Use Vilify in a Sentence
Each example shows “vilify” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The opposition party vilified the government's economic policies without offering constructive alternatives.”
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“Media outlets were criticized for vilifying the defendant before the trial concluded.”
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“Throughout history, scapegoat groups have been vilified to consolidate political power.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Vilify
Common Synonyms for Vilify
Smart Synonyms for Vilify — When to Use Each
- revile
- More intensely abusive and contemptuous; emphasizes verbal assault
- defame
- Legal term; emphasizes damage to reputation
- denigrate
- Slightly milder; more about belittling or disparaging
Common Collocations with Vilify
These phrases pair with “vilify” in everyday English:
- vilify someone
- vilify a group
- vilify policies
- unfairly vilify
- publicly vilified
Common Mistakes When Using Vilify
Even fluent speakers slip up with “vilify”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The report vilified the situation.
- ✓ Correct: The report vilified the minister. / The report criticised the situation.
- Why: Vilify requires a person or group as the direct object. For situations, use 'criticise' or 'condemn'.
- ✗ Wrong: They vilifys the work.
- ✓ Correct: They vilify the work.
- Why: After plural subject "they", use base form "vilify", not "vilifys".
- ✗ Wrong: The politician vilified against corruption.
- ✓ Correct: The politician spoke out against corruption. / The politician condemned corruption.
- Why: Use 'against', 'condemn', or 'attack' with situations, not 'vilify'. Vilify needs a person/group object.
Other Forms of Vilify
- Noun: vilification
- Verb: vilify
- Adjective: vilifying
Frequently Asked Questions About Vilify
What is the meaning of "Vilify"?
To say or write very harsh, negative, and insulting things about someone or something, often damaging their reputation deliberately.
How do you pronounce "Vilify"?
The IPA is /ˈvɪlɪfaɪ/. Stress the first syllable: VIL-uh-fy. The first 'i' is short as in 'hill', and the final syllable is pronounced with a long 'i' sound.
What part of speech is "Vilify"?
"Vilify" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Vilify"?
Common synonyms include revile, defame, slander.
How do you use "Vilify" in a sentence?
For example: "The opposition party vilified the government's economic policies without offering constructive alternatives."