animus
/ˈæ.nɪ.məs/
Group 14Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- Hostility or ill feeling; motivation to do something GRE
Example in Context
The court found that the policy was enacted with racial animus and therefore violated the equal protection clause.
Synonyms
hostilityhatredill will
Etymology
The inner spirit that can turn hostile.
- anima (Latin) — soul/spirit
Memory Aid
😠Sounds like “a nemesis”
My ANIMUS toward my nemesis was so intense, I could practically see the steam coming out of my ears!
Visual Association
⚔️Two rivals glaring at each other, swords drawn, ready to duel with palpable tension in the air.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “animus” mean on the GRE?
animus (noun) means “Hostility or ill feeling; motivation to do something”. The court found that the policy was enacted with racial animus and therefore violated the equal protection clause.
How to remember “animus” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “animus” sounds like “a nemesis”. My ANIMUS toward my nemesis was so intense, I could practically see the steam coming out of my ears!
What are synonyms for “animus”?
Common synonyms: hostility, hatred, ill will.