violent

Everyday

1. Violent means using strong physical force to hurt or damage people or things. tree →
2. Violent can describe something very strong and sudden in nature, such as a violent storm or a violent earthquake. tree →
3. Violent can describe very strong feelings or actions: a violent temper, a violent cough. tree →

In the lessons

In safety lessons, violent behaviour such as hitting or kicking is never okay, and children should tell a trusted adult if someone is violent. In science and geography, violent storms, volcanoes and earthquakes cause damage. Films and games may be rated as too violent for children. Phrases: «violent storm», «violent behaviour», «become violent».

Examples

• A violent storm knocked down trees. tree →
• Hitting is violent and is not allowed at school. tree →
• The volcano had a violent eruption. tree →
• That film is too violent for young children. tree →
• He had a violent coughing fit. tree →
• If someone is violent towards you, tell a trusted adult. tree →
• Then the man fell into a violent rage. tree →

Note

Adjective; adverb «violently»; noun «violence». Spelt -ent. Do not confuse with «violet» (a purple colour or flower) or «violin».

In Jewish tradition

In the Psalms, the violent man is a cruel person who hurts others, and the psalmist prays to be saved from him.

Interpretation. The tradition sees violence as a serious sin, and it was named as a reason for the Flood.

Examples

• Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man; preserve me from the violent man; (Writings PSA.140.2, JPS 1917) tree →
• A slanderer shall not be established in the earth; the violent and evil man shall be hunted with thrust upon thrust. (Writings PSA.140.12, JPS 1917) tree →
• As for the doings of men, by the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the ways of the violent. (Writings PSA.17.4, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Adjective; adverb «violently»; noun «violence». Spelt -ent. Do not confuse with «violet» (a purple colour or flower) or «violin».