What does the term "malevolent" imply about a person's character?

The term "malevolent" specifically refers to an intention or desire to cause harm or evil to others. It embodies qualities such as spitefulness and ill will, highlighting a negative and malicious aspect of a person's character. When someone is described as malevolent, it suggests they harbor intentions that can be detrimental to others, reflecting a harmful mindset.

In contrast, the other options describe different characteristics that do not capture the essence of malevolence. Being cool and confident indicates a self-assured demeanor, which does not imply harmful intentions. Exact and principled refers to a person who is strict about adherence to rules or morals but lacks the malicious intent associated with malevolence. Mysterious and strange describes an enigmatic personality without suggesting any harmful or ill will towards others. Therefore, the correct choice aligns with the negative connotation inherent in the term "malevolent."