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Callously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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callously

[หˆkรฆl.ษ™s.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe someone's behavior or attitude

In a way that shows no concern for the feelings or suffering of others. In a cold-hearted or indifferent manner. Without compassion or empathy.

Synonyms

cruelly, heartlessly, indifferently, ruthlessly, unfeelingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
callously

This word is used to describe an action that is done without any concern for othersโ€™ feelings or suffering. It implies a lack of empathy.

  • She callously dismissed his request for help.
  • He callously ignored the warning signs.
heartlessly

This word is appropriate when describing actions that show a complete lack of compassion or care for others. It is used to underline someoneโ€™s lack of sensitivity and emotional consideration.

  • He heartlessly turned his back on his family.
  • The manager heartlessly fired him without notice.
indifferently

This word describes an attitude or action marked by a lack of interest or concern. It doesnโ€™t necessarily imply cruelty, but rather a detachment or apathy.

  • She indifferently shrugged off their complaints.
  • He responded indifferently, as if he didnโ€™t care.
cruelly

This word is suitable for describing actions that are intentionally mean and cause suffering to others. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • The villain cruelly tormented the innocent villagers.
  • She was treated cruelly by her classmates.
ruthlessly

This word is used when someone acts aggressively or harshly, often without considering the consequences for others. It usually has a negative meaning, conveying a willingness to harm others to achieve one's goals.

  • He ruthlessly climbed to the top of the corporate ladder.
  • The dictator ruthlessly suppressed any opposition.
unfeelingly

This word describes actions or behaviors that show a lack of emotion or compassion. It suggests that the person is devoid of feelings especially where empathy is expected.

  • She unfeelingly rejected his plea for forgiveness.
  • The officer unfeelingly carried out the eviction orders.

Examples of usage

  • She callously ignored the pleas for help.
  • The criminal acted callously towards his victims.
  • The manager fired the employee callously, without any warning.
  • The politician's callous behavior towards the community was widely criticized.
  • The dictator ruled callously, crushing any opposition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Individuals who act callously may exhibit traits of antisocial personality disorder, where they lack empathy.
  • Callous behavior can be a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to cope with emotional pain by shutting off their feelings.

Literature

  • Many classic novels depict characters displaying callous behavior, often as a means to critique societal norms and values.
  • The portrayal of callous characters often serves to highlight the emotional and moral lessons learned by more empathetic characters.

Pop Culture

  • Fictional villains often exhibit callous traits, showcasing their disregard for others to enhance their menacing presence.
  • In film and television, characters that act callously often face dramatic consequences, reinforcing a moral message about empathy.

Social Commentary

  • Callousness can often be observed in discussions about social issues, where some may disregard the struggles of marginalized communities.
  • In a digital age, online interactions can sometimes lead to callous remarks, as the anonymity allows for a lack of accountability for one's words.

Origin of 'callously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'callosus', meaning 'hard-skinned', which relates to being emotionally tough.
  • It became popular in the English language in the 19th century, evolving from the idea of being physically insensitive to emotional insensitivity.

The word 'callously' originates from the Middle English word 'callosite' which means 'hard-hearted'. Over time, it evolved into 'callous' and then 'callously' in the English language. The term is often used to describe behavior that is lacking in empathy or compassion, reflecting a cold and uncaring attitude towards others.

See also: callosity, callousness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,608 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.