Repugnant vs. Revulsion

Attribute	Repugnant	Revulsion
Definition	Causing disgust or aversion	A strong feeling of disgust or horror
Synonyms	Offensive, repulsive, abhorrent	Disgust, loathing, abomination
Intensity	Can vary in intensity	Usually intense and overwhelming
Usage	Commonly used in formal language	Can be used in both formal and informal contexts

Definition

Repugnant and revulsion are two words that are often used interchangeably to describe feelings of disgust or aversion towards something. However, there are subtle differences between the two terms that are worth exploring.

Repugnant

The word "repugnant" is often used to describe something that is extremely distasteful or offensive. It conveys a sense of strong dislike or disapproval towards a particular object, idea, or behavior. When something is described as repugnant, it is usually considered to be morally or ethically objectionable.

For example, a repugnant act might be one that goes against commonly accepted societal norms or values. It could also refer to something that is physically repulsive or nauseating. Overall, repugnant is a word that is used to convey a deep sense of aversion or disgust.

Revulsion

On the other hand, the word "revulsion" is often used to describe a strong feeling of disgust or repulsion towards something. While similar to repugnant in some ways, revulsion tends to evoke a more visceral reaction. It is often associated with a physical sensation of nausea or discomfort.

For example, someone might feel revulsion towards a particularly gruesome scene in a movie or a repugnant smell. Revulsion is a word that conveys a sense of immediate and intense aversion, often accompanied by a physical reaction.

Emotional Response

When comparing repugnant and revulsion, it is important to consider the emotional response that each word evokes. Repugnant tends to convey a more intellectual or moral objection to something, while revulsion is more closely tied to a physical or instinctual reaction.

• Repugnant: intellectual or moral objection
• Revulsion: physical or instinctual reaction

While both words describe feelings of disgust, repugnant may be used in a more abstract or conceptual sense, while revulsion is often used to describe a more immediate and visceral reaction to something unpleasant.

Usage

Both repugnant and revulsion can be used to describe a wide range of situations or experiences. However, they are often used in slightly different contexts. Repugnant is more commonly used to describe moral or ethical objections, while revulsion is often used to describe physical reactions to something unpleasant.

For example, one might say that a racist comment is repugnant, while the sight of a decaying animal carcass might evoke feelings of revulsion. The choice between repugnant and revulsion often depends on the specific nature of the aversion being described.

Intensity

Another key difference between repugnant and revulsion is the intensity of the feelings they convey. Repugnant tends to describe a strong dislike or disapproval, while revulsion conveys a more immediate and intense feeling of disgust.

While something that is repugnant may be morally objectionable or offensive, something that evokes revulsion is likely to provoke a more visceral reaction. The intensity of the feelings associated with each word can vary depending on the individual and the specific context in which they are used.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while repugnant and revulsion are often used interchangeably to describe feelings of disgust or aversion, there are subtle differences between the two terms. Repugnant tends to convey a more intellectual or moral objection, while revulsion is more closely tied to a physical or instinctual reaction.

Both words can be used to describe a wide range of situations or experiences, but they are often used in slightly different contexts. Repugnant is more commonly used to describe moral or ethical objections, while revulsion is often used to describe physical reactions to something unpleasant.

Ultimately, the choice between repugnant and revulsion depends on the specific nature of the aversion being described and the intensity of the feelings being conveyed.