Find Antonyms
malice Antonyms
Opposite of malice
Because the opposite of malice shifts with each meaning, the antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• noun (Context 1)
The intention or desire to do evil or cause harm and suffering to another person; deep-seated ill will.
Usage Example
"He bore no benevolence toward his former business partner despite their bitter disagreement."
Strongest
benevolence
goodwill
kindness
Strong
compassion
amity
altruism
• noun (Context 2)
In law, the wrongful intention to commit an unlawful act or inflict injury without legal justification or excuse.
Usage Example
"To secure a conviction for libel by a public figure, the prosecution had to prove actual good faith on the part of the publisher."
Strong
good faith
Similar words to malice
Words similar to malice shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
malevolence
maliciousness
ill will
spite
animosity
malignity
rancor
venom
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Malice. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/malice