"Balefully" is an adverb that describes a look or gaze that is full of anger, hatred, or malice. It suggests a feeling of intense hostility and ill will towards someone or something.
Imagine someone staring at you with a baleful look. They might be:
- Frowning intensely
- Glaring with hatred
- Holding a look of intense disapproval
The word "balefully" is often used to convey a sense of danger or threat. It implies that the person looking balefully is capable of causing harm.
Here are some examples of how "balefully" might be used in a sentence:
- "The old woman glared balefully at the group of teenagers who were vandalizing her garden."
- "The dog watched balefully as its owner packed a suitcase, knowing it was about to be left behind."
- "The general looked balefully at the retreating enemy soldiers, vowing to crush them."
In literature, "balefully" is often used to create a sense of suspense or foreboding. It can also be used to develop the character of a villain or antagonist.
In everyday language, "balefully" is less common, but it can be used to add a touch of drama or intensity to your writing or speech.
Remember: While "balefully" suggests hostility, it doesn't necessarily mean that the person looking balefully will act on their anger. It's simply a description of their expression and the underlying feeling.
