What Is Another Way to Say “Mean Spirited”?

Looking for synonyms for mean spirited? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say mean spirited.

  • Malicious
  • Nasty
  • Spiteful
  • Malevolent
  • Vindictive
  • Venomous
  • Bitter
  • Hostile
  • Ill-natured
  • Petty
  • Vicious
  • Unkind
  • Hateful
  • Malignant
  • Cruel
  • Rancorous
  • Sour
  • Mean
  • Harsh
  • Acrimonious

Want to learn how to say mean spirited professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Malicious

Appropriate Usage: Describes an intention or desire to do harm.
Example: The malicious rumors about the company’s finances were unfounded and damaging.

2. Nasty

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for behavior or remarks that are spiteful or unpleasant.
Example: The competitor’s nasty comments about our product were unprofessional.

3. Spiteful

Appropriate Usage: Refers to showing or caused by malice.
Example: The spiteful review was more about personal vendetta than actual product feedback.

4. Malevolent

Appropriate Usage: Describes having or showing a wish to do evil to others.
Example: The malevolent actions of a disgruntled employee posed a serious threat to the team’s morale.

5. Vindictive

Appropriate Usage: Used for someone who has a strong or unreasoning desire for revenge.
Example: The manager’s vindictive behavior towards the former employee was concerning.

6. Venomous

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for something full of malice or spite.
Example: The venomous statement released by the competitor was intended to discredit our company.

7. Bitter

Appropriate Usage: Refers to showing anger, hurt, or resentment.
Example: The bitter dispute between the partners affected the business’s operations.

8. Hostile

Appropriate Usage: Describes an unfriendly or antagonistic attitude.
Example: The hostile takeover bid created uncertainty among the company’s shareholders.

9. Ill-natured

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for showing a spiteful or unpleasant disposition.
Example: The ill-natured comments during the meeting created a tense atmosphere.

10. Petty

Appropriate Usage: Used for small-mindedness or mean-spirited over trivial matters.
Example: The supervisor’s petty criticism over minor issues was demotivating the team.

11. Vicious

Appropriate Usage: Describes deliberate cruelty or violence.
Example: The vicious competition in the market forced several small players out of business.

12. Unkind

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for behavior that is not friendly or considerate.
Example: Her unkind words about the coworker’s efforts were neither necessary nor productive.

13. Hateful

Appropriate Usage: Refers to intense dislike or ill will.
Example: The hateful propaganda against the new policy was a major concern for the management.

14. Malignant

Appropriate Usage: Describes a harmful or malevolent nature.
Example: The malignant gossip in the office was affecting employee relationships.

15. Cruel

Appropriate Usage: Used for willfully causing pain or suffering to others.
Example: The manager’s cruel remarks about the employee’s performance were unacceptable.

16. Rancorous

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for showing deep-seated resentment or ill will.
Example: The rancorous disagreement between the departments hindered collaboration.

17. Sour

Appropriate Usage: Refers to a mood or disposition that is bad-tempered or resentful.
Example: The sour relationship between the two executives was well-known in the industry.

18. Mean

Appropriate Usage: Describes being unkind, spiteful, or unfair.
Example: The mean-spirited comments about the competition did not reflect well on our company.

19. Harsh

Appropriate Usage: Suitable for an excessively severe or unkind manner.
Example: The CEO’s harsh criticism in the public forum was not well-received.

20. Acrimonious

Appropriate Usage: Refers to angry and bitter speech or behavior.
Example: The acrimonious negotiations between the company and the union were stressful for all involved.

Linda Brown