Vitriol

Vitriol is caustic, acrimonious, and bitter language or criticism. It's a harsh and venomous expression of disapproval or hatred, often fueled by anger or resentment. This type of communication can be direct and overt, or subtly laced with cynicism and contempt. The intention is usually to wound, insult, or damage someone or something. vitriol can manifest in various forms, including spoken words, written text, social media posts, or even actions, and it often leaves a lasting, painful impression. It typically signifies a deliberate attempt to inflict emotional or psychological harm, reflecting a deep-seated negativity in the speaker or writer. The effectiveness of vitriol often lies in its ability to target vulnerabilities or expose weaknesses, magnifying the damage it inflicts.

Vitriol meaning with examples

• The political debate quickly devolved into a swamp of vitriol, with candidates hurling personal attacks instead of discussing policy. The mudslinging left voters disgusted, as each side resorted to cheap shots, attempting to tear down the other's character with hateful and spiteful language in a display of incivility.
• After the review of his film came out, the director responded with vitriol, attacking the critic's intelligence and perceived lack of understanding. His angry words were a knee-jerk reaction. The industry saw it as confirmation of the harsh criticisms. This backfired significantly, further damaging his reputation.
• Her social media feed became a stream of vitriol aimed at anyone who held different opinions, especially towards those expressing opinions she disagreed with. The posts were filled with sarcasm and anger, isolating her from friends and family. The constant negativity drove people away, making her more alone.
• In the aftermath of the scandal, the media unleashed a torrent of vitriol against the company's executives, publishing articles laced with accusatory accusations and graphic depictions of misdeeds. The scathing criticism was relentless. This damaged their corporate image and resulted in massive resignations.