nefarious

IPA/nɪˈfeəriəs/
KK[nəfˈɛriəs]IPA/nɪˈferiəs/

nefarious — adjective

  • nefariouspositive
  • more nefariouscomparative
  • most nefarioussuperlative

1. done with an evil or criminal purpose — used especially of plans, schemes, or ac

1.形容詞C1
釋義

done with an evil or criminal purpose — used especially of plans, schemes, or activities that are deliberately harmful to others

例句

Evelyn uncovered a nefarious plot to sell fake medicine to elderly patients.

collocation: nefarious plot

Ziad was arrested for using the charity's funds for nefarious purposes.

collocation: nefarious purposes

同義詞
  • wicked

    more general; can describe people and actions equally

  • evil

    stronger; often suggests profound or supernatural moral corruption

  • heinous

    emphasises the shockingly bad nature; used especially for crimes

  • villainous

    has a theatrical or story-like quality, like a villain in fiction

反義詞
  • benevolent

    suggests active goodwill and kindness towards others

  • righteous

    morally right and justifiable

用法筆記

Almost always describes actions, plans, or schemes rather than people directly. Common collocates include plot, scheme, activity, purpose, and plan.

常見錯誤

❌The nefarious celebrity was on every magazine cover.
✅The infamous celebrity was on every magazine cover.
💡'nefarious' describes evil actions, not fame or notoriety.