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betray - Expose (one's country, a group, or a person) to danger by treacherously giving information to an enemy

Benedict Arnold famously betrayed the heroes of the Revolutionary War by helping the British.

noun

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tyranny - Cruel and oppressive government or rule

Josef Stalin was a brutal ruler whose tyranny killed millions of people. (related noun: Tyrant).

nounverb verb

See noun

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smash - Violently break (something) into pieces

In Jewish weddings, it's common for the groom to smash a glass with his foot as part of the ceremony.

adjective

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insidious - Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with harmful effects

The effects of climate change are so insidious that they're not noticeable until polar bears have less ice to live on.

noun

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thug - A violent person, especially a criminal

When walking late at night, people should be aware of violent thugs that could rob them.

verb

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sabotage - Deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct (something), especially for political or military advantage.

People who aren't willing to better themselves often resort to sabotaging themselves instead of working through the problem.

verb

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belittle - To speak about someone or something in a way that shows little respect.

A good rule of interpersoanl relationships is: Don’t belittle others just to make yourself feel better.

noun

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nemesis - A long-standing rival; an archenemy

As the leader of the Dark Side, Darth Vader was the evil nemesis of the heroic Luke Skywalker.

verb

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undermine - To gradually weaken the authority or ability of a person or organization

The polarization and infighting of the members of Congress threatened to undermine its ability to pass meaningful legislation.

verb

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lambaste - Criticize (someone or something) harshly

Before he was fired for his poor performance, Frank was lambasted by his boss in front of his coworkers.

verb

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mutilate - To damage something severely

The grizzly bear not only killed Alan's dog, but mutilated its body beyond recognition.

verb

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clash - Meet and come into violent conflict

The police clashed with rioters in the streets as they tried to restore order.