noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
General term for hostile intent or desire to harm someone. Used in everyday and formal contexts.
彼の言葉には悪意が感じられた。
I sensed ill will in his words.
悪
Please stop spreading malicious rumors.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
bad meaning; negative connotation
Refers to interpreting something in a negative or unfavorable way. Often used in contrast with 善意 (good meaning).
その発言は悪意に取られかねない。
That remark could be taken in a bad way.
noun
Legal term for intentional wrongdoing or deceit. Sense 3 (mala fides/criminal intent to deceive) and sense 4 (malice) are closely related in legal usage and merged here.
See also: 善意
契約時に悪意があったと認定された。
It was determined that there was bad faith at the time of the contract.