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What is the Meaning of “Violence”?

Violence
/ˈvaɪ.ə.ləns/

Using physical force to hurt someone, or acting with great force or strong emotion.

Definition of Violence

Quick Meaning of Violence

Using physical force to hurt someone, or acting with great force or strong emotion.

Detailed Definition of Violence

Physical force intended to hurt or damage; strength of feeling or behavior.

How to Pronounce Violence

IPA: /ˈvaɪ.ə.ləns/
vi o lence

Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).

Tip: Three syllables with stress on first: VY-uh-lens. Middle part uses schwa.

Watch out: Stress sometimes placed on middle syllable by learners.

Full pronunciation guide for “violence” →

Origin and Etymology of Violence

From Latin violentia, from violentus 'violent, vehement'.

How to Use Violence in a Sentence

Each example shows “violence” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The police work to prevent violence in the community.”
    B1 formal
  • “The movie contained scenes of violence that disturbed many viewers.”
    B1 written
  • “They condemned the violence and called for peaceful dialogue.”
    B2 formal

Synonyms and Antonyms of Violence

Common Synonyms for Violence

Smart Synonyms for Violence — When to Use Each

aggression
for hostile or attacking behavior in general
brutality
emphasizing savage or cruel acts against others

Antonyms of Violence

See all synonyms for “violence” →

Common Collocations with Violence

These phrases pair with “violence” in everyday English:

  • prevent violence
  • domestic violence
  • street violence
  • act of violence

Common Mistakes When Using Violence

Even fluent speakers slip up with “violence”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: The violences in the city are increasing.
✓ Correct: Violence in the city is increasing.
Why: Violence is uncountable; never pluralize
✗ Wrong: He acted with violence to his neighbor.
✓ Correct: He acted violently toward his neighbor.
Why: Use adverb 'violently' after 'acted'

Other Forms of Violence

Frequently Asked Questions About Violence

What is the meaning of "Violence"?

Using physical force to hurt someone, or acting with great force or strong emotion.

How do you pronounce "Violence"?

The IPA is /ˈvaɪ.ə.ləns/. Three syllables with stress on first: VY-uh-lens. Middle part uses schwa.

What part of speech is "Violence"?

"Violence" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Violence"?

Common synonyms include aggression, brutality, force.

How do you use "Violence" in a sentence?

For example: "The police work to prevent violence in the community."

Explore Violence in Other Tools