How to Memorize

malice - spite

Analysis

The word ‘malice’ does not apply if something is accidentally cruel or upsetting. The intent is the key. Something ‘malicious’ is always intended or intending to do harm or cause embarrassment. Rather than stemming from pure hatred, such actions are typically the result of a petty and spiteful desire to see somebody suffer.

Example(s)

1. There was no justified reason for the attack. It was motivated by pure malice.

2. I hear Tom has been spreading malicious rumours about me again. Don’t believe a word he says.

3. I don’t believe there was any maliciousness in what she said. She was not trying to offend anyone.