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Ruffian - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A ruffian is a violent or lawless person, often a troublemaker or criminal. The term describes someone who behaves aggressively or without regard for rules or others' safety.

ruffian

/ˈrʌfiən/ /ˈrʌfiən/

Definition:

A violent, lawless person, often involved in crime or disorderly behavior.

Synonyms:

thug, hooligan, brute, hoodlum

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

gentleman, law-abiding citizen

Common Collocations:

violent ruffian, gang of ruffians, drunken ruffian

Derivatives:

ruffianly, ruffianism

Usage Tips:

Use "ruffian" to describe a rough, aggressive person, often with criminal tendencies.

Common Phrases:

a band of ruffians, ruffian behavior, young ruffians

Etymology:

From Old French "rufian," meaning pimp or scoundrel; possibly of Germanic origin.

Examples:

  • 1. The bar was full of drunken ruffians causing trouble.
  • 2. The sheriff arrested the ruffian for vandalizing the storefront.
  • 3. Parents warned their children to avoid the local ruffians after dark.
  • 4. The novel’s villain was a cruel ruffian with no morals.

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