Rancor refers to deep-seated bitterness, resentment, or long-lasting hatred, often resulting from past wrongs or perceived injustices. It is a strong and persistent feeling of ill will that can lead to ongoing hostility or grudges. Unlike temporary anger, rancor tends to linger for a long time and can negatively impact relationships and emotional well-being. In Indonesian, “rancor” can be translated as “dendam,” “kedengkian mendalam,” or “permusuhan berkepanjangan.”
Synonyms of “Rancor”:
- Bitterness (kepahitan perasaan)
- Resentment (kedongkolan/dendam)
- Animosity (permusuhan)
- Hatred (kebencian)
- Hostility (permusuhan)
- Malice (niat jahat)
- Spite (kedengkian)
- Ill will (niat buruk)
- Grudge (dendam yang tersimpan lama)
- Vindictiveness (sifat pendendam)
Example Sentences Using “Rancor”:
- Despite years of conflict, he tried to move forward without rancor.
- The rancor between the two families lasted for generations.
- His voice was filled with rancor as he spoke about his former business partner.
- She couldn’t hide her rancor toward those who betrayed her.
- The political debate was full of rancor and personal attacks.
- Holding onto rancor will only cause emotional suffering.
- There was no rancor in her heart, even after being wronged.
- He harbored rancor toward his boss for unfairly firing him.
- The rancor between the rival teams led to heated confrontations.
- Over time, he learned to let go of his rancor and forgive.
Related Words:
- Wrath (kemarahan besar)
- Fury (kemarahan hebat)
- Distrust (ketidakpercayaan)
- Jealousy (kecemburuan)
- Grievance (keluhan atau ketidakpuasan yang mendalam)
- Coldness (sikap dingin akibat permusuhan)
- Prejudice (prasangka buruk)
- Vindictiveness (keinginan untuk membalas dendam)
Antonyms of “Rancor”:
- Forgiveness (pengampunan)
- Reconciliation (pendamaian)
- Kindness (kebaikan)
- Peace (kedamaian)
- Goodwill (itikad baik)
- Affection (kasih sayang)
- Harmony (keselarasan)
- Compassion (belas kasih)
- Friendship (persahabatan)
- Understanding (pengertian)
Phrasal Verbs Related to “Rancor”:
- Let go of – To release rancor or resentment (“She decided to let go of her rancor and move on.”)
- Harbor resentment – To keep feelings of rancor inside (“He harbored rancor toward his childhood enemy.”)
- Hold against – To maintain rancor toward someone (“He still holds her mistakes against her.”)
- Get over – To overcome rancor or bitterness (“He struggled to get over his rancor toward his old friend.”)
- Work through – To process and resolve rancor (“She worked through her rancor in therapy.”)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Rancor”:
- “Holding a grudge” – Keeping resentment or rancor over time.
- “A chip on one’s shoulder” – Holding onto bitterness or a past slight.
- “Bad blood” – A history of hostility or rancor between people.
- “Adding fuel to the fire” – Making rancor worse by provoking someone.
- “Let bygones be bygones” – Choosing to forget past offenses and move on.
How to Overcome Rancor
If you feel rancor toward someone or something, here are ways to manage it:
- Practice forgiveness – Letting go of rancor benefits your emotional health.
- Communicate openly – Resolving misunderstandings can reduce lingering resentment.
- Shift your focus – Concentrate on the future rather than past injustices.
- Engage in positive activities – Redirecting energy into hobbies or meaningful goals can help.
- Seek professional help if needed – If rancor affects your well-being, therapy or counseling can be useful.
Conclusion
Rancor is a deep-seated feeling of bitterness, resentment, or hostility that lingers over time. While it may stem from real grievances, holding onto rancor can lead to negativity, stress, and emotional suffering. Choosing forgiveness, understanding, and personal growth can help break free from rancor and lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
