Pernicious definition Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈpɜːrnɪʃəs/

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

(of harm, damage, or malfunction) subtle, insidious, and often long-lasting: causing long-term harm or damage that is difficult to notice or repair.

Examples

1. “The pernicious effects of pollution on the environment are beginning to show.”

2. “The software update contained a pernicious bug that crashed the system repeatedly.”

Synonyms

1. Insidious

2. Malignant

3. Pernegotiating

Antonyms

1. Beneficial

2. Restorative

Etymology

The word “pernicious” originates from the Latin word “perniciosus,” meaning causing harm or damage. This term is derived from “per” (through) and “nocere” (to harm). The term has been used in the English language since the 16th century.

Usage Notes

“Pernicious” is typically used in formal and technical contexts, such as science, medicine, and engineering. It’s often used to describe complex, subtle harm or damage that tends to worsen over time.

Cultural References

“Pernicious” has been used in various literary and scientific works to describe insidious harm or damage. For example, in the novel “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury, the protagonist’s love of books is seen as a “pernicious” influence on his life.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Pernicious flaw”: a subtle or long-lasting defect that often worsens over time.

“Pernicious effect”: causing harm or damage that is difficult to notice or repair.

Collocations

persistent/pernicious damage: causing lasting harm or damage that is difficult to repair.

long-term/pernicious effects: having a lasting impact or harm that is difficult to notice or repair.

Frequency of Use

“Pernicious” is relatively rare in modern language, as it’s often more formal and technical than necessary. However, it remains a useful term for describing insidious harm or damage in specific contexts.

Pernicious definition Meaning and Definition