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unkind words

[/ʌnˈkaɪnd wɜːrdz/]
noun phrase
palavras desagradáveis / palavras cruéis
1. Harsh, hurtful, or offensive language spoken to or about someone
He spoke unkind words to his colleague during the argument.
Ele disse palavras desagradáveis ao seu colega durante a discussão.
2. Remarks that lack compassion or gentleness
Unkind words can hurt more than physical blows.
Palavras cruéis podem machucar mais do que golpes físicos.
NYC Slang
mean words / shots fired
Synonyms
harsh wordshurtful remarkscruel languageinsulting wordsoffensive comments
Antonyms
kind wordsgentle wordscomplimentspraiseencouragement

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
palavras desagradáveis / palavras cruéis
Most common usage in Brazil
São Paulo
palavras maldosas
Slightly more colloquial, emphasizing malice
Portugal
palavras desagradáveis / palavras hirtas
European Portuguese; 'hirtas' emphasizes harshness

Related Idioms & Phrases

speak unkind words
exchange unkind words
utter unkind words
not a word out of place
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