Distinguishing Enmity from Hatred

Key Difference – Enmity vs Hatred

Enmity and hatred are both negative feelings that describe intense dislike and hostility. However, they have some differences. The main distinction between enmity and hatred is that enmity is often mutual, while hatred can be mutual or one-sided. Hatred refers to an intense feeling of dislike and resentment towards a person, while enmity refers to the hatred, hostility, anger, and resentment that two people or two parties have towards each other.

What Does Enmity Mean?

Enmity can be described as a state or feeling of active opposition or hostility. Enmity often involves two parties. For example, A feels deep-seated hatred and hostility towards B, and B feels the same towards A. Thus, A and B can be considered as enemies. The situation between Montagues and Capulets in Romeo and Juliet can be termed as enmity.  The term enmity connotes several negative feelings such as anger, vindictiveness, and the desire to destroy what one hates.

What Does Hatred Mean?

Hatred refers to an intense feeling of dislike. Hatred is the exact opposite of love. This feeling is often associated with negative feelings such as anger and violence. Hatred can originate from feelings such as dislike, jealousy, revulsion, or ignorance. However, hatred may not be as intense as enmity. In addition, hatred doesn’t have to be a mutual feeling. For example, A might hate B, but B may not have any ill feeling or hostility towards A.

What is the difference between Enmity and Hatred?

Definition:
Enmity: Enmity is a state or feeling of active opposition or hostility.
Hatred: Hatred is an intense feeling of dislike.

Parties Involved:
Enmity: Enmity is often mutual.
Hatred: Hatred can be one-sided.

Intensity:
Enmity: Enmity is more hostile and intense than hatred.
Hatred: Hatred is not as intense as enmity.

Dmitri Ivanov
Dmitri Ivanovhttps://whats-different.com
Dmitri Ivanov, a writer and managing editor, was educated in Canada and holds a BS in Science. Dmitri loves doing research, writing, and teaching various courses.

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