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odious

English → EnglishliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "odious": The word "odious" describes something or someone that is extremely unpleasant, repulsive, or deservi

What does "odious" mean?

The word "odious" describes something or someone that is extremely unpleasant, repulsive, or deserving of strong hatred. The mental image is of something so foul or morally offensive that it triggers an immediate, visceral reaction of disgust or aversion in anyone who encounters it. While similar to "hateful" or "detestable," "odious" carries a heavier, more formal weight. It is often used to describe acts, traits, or people that are seen as fundamentally loathsome or repugnant. It is rarely used in casual conversation and is most common in literary or argumentative writing to emphasize deep moral disapproval.

"odious" in conversation

Discussing a disliked character

I honestly couldn't finish the book; the protagonist was just too odious to follow.

I honestly couldn't finish the book; the protagonist was just too odious to follow.

I agree, his constant betrayal of his friends made him truly detestable.

I agree, his constant betrayal of his friends made him truly detestable.

Used here to describe a character's personality.

Formal debate

Such an odious comparison serves only to undermine the gravity of the situation.

Such an odious comparison serves only to undermine the gravity of the situation.

I acknowledge your point; the analogy was indeed poorly chosen.

I acknowledge your point; the analogy was indeed poorly chosen.

Used in a formal context to condemn a specific comparison.

"odious" in a sentence

  1. He had the odious task of cleaning the flooded basement.

    He had the odious task of cleaning the flooded basement.

  2. The dictator's odious crimes were finally brought to light by the international tribunal.

    The dictator's odious crimes were finally brought to light by the international tribunal.

  3. She found his habit of interrupting others to be an odious display of arrogance.

    She found his habit of interrupting others to be an odious display of arrogance.

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