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pernicious

English → EnglishformalliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "pernicious": Pernicious describes something that causes great harm or damage, but in a way that is subtle, gradua

What does "pernicious" mean?

Pernicious describes something that causes great harm or damage, but in a way that is subtle, gradual, or difficult to notice until it is too late. Visualize a slow-acting poison or a creeping vine that silently strangles a tree from the inside out; it is not a sudden explosion of violence, but a quiet, steady erosion of well-being. This word is most often used in formal or academic contexts to describe abstract concepts like influences, ideologies, or habits. You wouldn't typically say a car accident is "pernicious" because that is sudden and obvious; instead, you might talk about the "pernicious effects of social media" or the "pernicious influence of misinformation."

"pernicious" in conversation

Discussing workplace culture

The constant pressure to be available after hours is really taking a toll on the team.

The constant pressure to be available after hours is really taking a toll on the team.

I agree. It’s a pernicious cycle that eventually leads to total burnout.

I agree. It’s a pernicious cycle that eventually leads to total burnout.

Pernicious is used here to highlight that the damage is happening slowly over time.

Discussing political rhetoric

We must be wary of the rhetoric being used in these debates.

We must be wary of the rhetoric being used in these debates.

Do you think it’s having a pernicious effect on public discourse?

Do you think it’s having a pernicious effect on public discourse?

This demonstrates the word's common usage in academic and political analysis.

"pernicious" in a sentence

  1. The pernicious habit of checking emails at dinner ruined our conversation.

    The pernicious habit of checking emails at dinner ruined our conversation.

  2. Constant exposure to such pernicious misinformation can distort one's perception of reality.

    Constant exposure to such pernicious misinformation can distort one's perception of reality.

  3. The economic policy had a pernicious impact on small businesses, slowly eroding their profit margins over several years.

    The economic policy had a pernicious impact on small businesses, slowly eroding their profit margins over several years.

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