General terms:
* Animal: This is the most basic and general term.
* Creature: This word is more general than "animal" and can refer to things that are not strictly animals, like mythical creatures.
* Brute: This word implies strength, force, and often a lack of intelligence.
* Monster: This word suggests something frightening, dangerous, or unnatural.
* Savage: This word implies wildness, ferocity, and a lack of civilization.
More specific terms:
* Predator: A creature that hunts and eats other animals.
* Prey: An animal that is hunted by another animal.
* Wild animal: An animal that lives in the wild and is not domesticated.
* Feral animal: An animal that has been domesticated but has returned to a wild state.
* Behemoth: A large and powerful creature, often mythical.
Figurative terms:
* Devil: Used to describe a person who is evil or cruel.
* Demon: Similar to "devil", but can also refer to a supernatural being.
* Monster: Used figuratively to describe someone who is cruel or dangerous.
To choose the best word, consider the specific type of "beast" you're referring to and the overall tone of your writing.