a pervert

Meanings

1. 1nouncountableoffensiveinformal

   an offensive word for a person whose sexual behavior is considered strange or unacceptable

   Grammar: Countable: 'a pervert', 'those perverts'. It is a strong insult and should be used with care.

   Patterns

   • call someone a pervert
   • a dirty pervert

   The word 'pervert' is often used as an insult and can be very hurtful.

   In the story, the character wrongly accuses his neighbor of being a pervert.

2. 2nouncountableformaldisapproving

   a person who has changed from a belief or way of life to another, especially in a way others disapprove of

   Grammar: Countable; often followed by 'from' or 'to': 'a pervert from the true faith'.

   Patterns

   • a pervert from something
   • a pervert to something

   He was called a pervert from the party's original principles.

   The old writer was seen as a pervert to the values of his youth.

Word forms

Common combinations

call someone a pervert

It is not acceptable to call someone a pervert just because you disagree with them.

a total pervert

The insult 'a total pervert' is extremely strong and offensive.

accuse someone of being a pervert

She accused him of being a pervert, but later apologized.

Synonyms and how they differ

sex offender

A neutral legal term for someone convicted of a sexual crime; 'pervert' is an insult and not a legal term.

deviant

A formal or technical word for someone whose behavior is considered outside social norms; 'pervert' is more insulting and informal.

Word family

perverted adjective

Describing behavior or ideas that are considered strange or unacceptable, especially sexually.

perversion noun

The act or state of being perverted, or a change from what is considered normal.

pervert verb

To change something from its original meaning or purpose, often in a negative way.

Commonly confused: a pervert or perv?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “a pervert”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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