Synonym Chooser

How does the noun rancor differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of rancor are animosity, animus, antagonism, antipathy, enmity, and hostility. While all these words mean "deep-seated dislike or ill will," rancor is especially applied to bitter brooding over a wrong.

rancor filled every line of his letters

When is it sensible to use animosity instead of rancor?

While the synonyms animosity and rancor are close in meaning, animosity suggests intense ill will and vindictiveness that threaten to kindle hostility.

animosity that led to revenge

Where would animus be a reasonable alternative to rancor?

Although the words animus and rancor have much in common, animus adds to animosity the implication of strong prejudice.

objections devoid of personal animus

How are the words antipathy and antagonism related as synonyms of rancor?

Both antipathy and antagonism imply a natural or logical basis for one's hatred or dislike, antipathy suggesting repugnance, a desire to avoid or reject, and antagonism suggesting a clash of temperaments leading readily to hostility.

a natural antipathy for self-seekers
antagonism between the brothers

When is enmity a more appropriate choice than rancor?

While in some cases nearly identical to rancor, enmity suggests positive hatred which may be open or concealed.

an unspoken enmity

When might hostility be a better fit than rancor?

The words hostility and rancor are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, hostility suggests an enmity showing itself in attacks or aggression.

hostility between the two nations

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of rancor The band’s announcement of their split came after months of rancor in a management dispute between HYBE and ADOR’s former CEO, Min Hee-jin, who also serves as the group’s creative director. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 7 Feb. 2025 Continue reading … 'FIND SOME JOY' – Standup star urges people to put down their phones, step away from political rancor. Fox News, 6 Feb. 2025 That's on top of dozens of weapon arts, including bloodhound step, seppuku, rancor slash, and Hoarah Loux's earthshaker, which are applied to corresponding weapons by default and triggered by holding LT while double-handing them. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025 Nobody in attendance had any idea there was backstage rancor. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 19 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rancor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rancor
Noun
  • Ultimately, restrictions on vacant CPS property sales are part of a broader problem, and that’s education officials’ open hostility toward alternative education models.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025
  • Then a decade of talks crashed into President Trump’s hostility toward Canada.
    Karen Weise, New York Times, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • The daughter of the trickster god Anansi, Abena spent her entire life terrified that her dad would lose her in a bet, and still bears a grudge that the Doctor couldn't take her away.
    Richard Edwards, Space.com, 10 May 2025
  • Football folk have memories that would impress elephants and a mafioso’s capacity for holding grudges.
    Michael Walker, New York Times, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • The project educates students about the dangers of hatred and bigotry and the importance of standing against all forms of prejudice.
    Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025
  • Meanwhile, Republicans such as our current president spew contempt like volcanoes of hatred, prejudice and madness.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2025

Cite this Entry

“Rancor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rancor. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on rancor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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