Vituperative: Meaning, Examples and Quiz
Vituperative (adjective) — Vituperative means full of harsh, abusive criticism. It is a formal adjective that often describes speech, writing or an attack on someone.
Stronger than firm criticism
A firm disagreement can explain problems without insulting anyone. Vituperative language suggests bitter abuse or personal condemnation, making it much stronger than critical alone.
When describing a discussion, identify the tone rather than reproducing insults. The adjective usually expresses disapproval of how the criticism is delivered.
Vituperative in sentences
- The debate deteriorated into a vituperative exchange.
- The editor asked the writer to replace the vituperative paragraph with specific evidence.
- Her reply was critical but never vituperative.
- A vituperative attack on the presenter distracted readers from the actual proposal.
Useful patterns and word forms
Common combinations include vituperative language, a vituperative attack and a vituperative response. Vituperatively is the adverb: he responded vituperatively.
Short quiz: check your understanding
Try each question before opening its answer.
Question 1
Vituperative language is A) harshly abusive or B) merely precise?
Show answer 1 and explanation
A. The word concerns abusive criticism, not precision.
Question 2
Can a response be critical without being vituperative?
Show answer 2 and explanation
Yes. It can identify problems without becoming abusive.
Question 3
Complete: “The speaker replied ___.” Choose vituperative or vituperatively.
Show answer 3 and explanation
Vituperatively. The adverb describes how the speaker replied.
Try it today: Rewrite a fictional harsh complaint as a specific, courteous criticism.
Dictionary reference: Merriam-Webster: Vituperative. Examples and quiz questions are written for English Skill Studio.
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