French Conversation · Level 150
30 words
French word
vil
Pronunciation
IPA/vil/
Meaning
- adjectivedespicable
Example
C'est un acte vil.
It is a despicable act.
More examples
Il a fait un geste vil.
He made a vile gesture.
Core concept
A deliberate act that treats another person's dignity as worthless.
Common phrases
acte vil
vile act
geste vil
vile gesture
Similar words
méchant: Characterized by spiteful behavior or unkind treatment of others.
vilain: Describing disgraceful, dishonest conduct or a mean attitude.
détestable: Causing intense dislike because of an unacceptable quality or action.
méprisable: Lacking the character and decency needed to avoid contempt.
Definition in French
Qui manifeste une bassesse morale, c'est-à-dire une conduite ou une intention méprisable.
Word origin
French vil comes through Old French from Latin vilis, meaning of little worth, whose meaning developed toward moral contempt.
Usage tips
- Vil is a strong condemnation, so direct use about a person or act can sound harsh rather than merely critical.