Ruffians

Ruffians are violent or lawless people; bullies or thugs. They are typically associated with aggressive behavior, disregard for authority, and a propensity for causing harm or disruption. Historically, the term has been used to describe street gangs, pirates, mercenaries, or anyone perceived as a threat to social order. The core characteristic of a ruffian is their inclination towards intimidation and the use of force to achieve their goals, often engaging in criminal activities or simply causing trouble. Their actions frequently involve physical violence, theft, or other forms of antisocial behavior designed to inflict suffering, or harm, on others.

Ruffians meaning with examples

• The old town's inhabitants lived in fear, as roaming ruffians often terrorized the streets, extorting money and engaging in petty vandalism. These gangs would often leave the residents, in a constant state of panic, in fear of their next encounter, making the quality of life intolerable.
• Security guards struggled to control a group of drunken ruffians attempting to force their way into the concert venue. Despite repeated warnings, the group became increasingly aggressive, demanding entry and threatening to cause a disturbance. They were eventually removed by the venue staff.
• In the historical novel, the protagonist had to navigate a treacherous underworld populated by ruthless ruffians and cutthroats. Dealing with these violent criminals became a major theme as the hero struggled to overcome these nefarious enemies and ultimately succeed in bringing justice.
• The detective was tasked with infiltrating a hideout of ruffians, hoping to gather evidence of their involvement in a series of robberies. He knew the mission was dangerous, as the suspects had a reputation for violence and a willingness to use it if they believed it was necessary.