C2adverbformalcrimeemotions
US/məˈlɪʃ.əs.li/
UK/məˈlɪʃ.əs.li/
in a way that is meant to hurt or harm someone
In context
Someone maliciously spread a rumor that the shop was closing down.
He was charged with maliciously damaging his neighbor's car.
She smiled maliciously as her rival failed the test.
Words that go with maliciously
adverb + verb
- maliciously damageThe boys maliciously damaged the bus shelter.
- maliciously spreadRumors were maliciously spread online.
verb + adverb
- act maliciouslyThe court found that he had acted maliciously.
- smile maliciouslyHe smiled maliciously at her mistake.
adverb + adjective
- maliciously motivatedThe complaint was maliciously motivated.
- maliciously falseThe article contained maliciously false claims.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a maliciously personCorrect: a malicious person