Wilful

usgb/ˈwɪlfl/
adjective

Intentionally doing something, especially something wrong or harmful.

He expressed his anger towards her wilful disregard of the rules
Visual representation of "wilful" - Intentionally doing something, especially something wrong or harmful

Often appears as...

  • wilful neglect
  • wilful misconduct

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "wilful"
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Negative Connotation

Using 'wilful' suggests a negative judgment about someone's actions being intentional, often related to wrongdoings.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The jury found him guilty of wilful misconduct.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Legal Implications

In legal contexts, 'wilful' implies that an act was done with intention and can affect the severity of punishment.

Illustration for Legal Implications
The wilful destruction of property is a serious offense.
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Emotional Impact

When someone's actions are described as 'wilful', it often triggers emotions like frustration or disapproval in others.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
His wilful ignorance of the issue infuriated the committee.
Word comparison image

Compare with

deliberateheadstrongintentionalintractableobstinatepurposefulstubbornvoluntary
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Visual representation of the word "Wilful"

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