Callously: meaning, definitions and examples

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callously

 

[ ˈkæl.əs.li ]

Adverb
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.

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Word Description / Examples
callously

This word is used to describe an action that is done without any concern for others’ 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 someone’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 doesn’t necessarily imply cruelty, but rather a detachment or apathy.

  • She indifferently shrugged off their complaints.
  • He responded indifferently, as if he didn’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

Translations of the word "callously" in other languages:

🇵🇹 insensivelmente

🇮🇳 निर्दयतापूर्वक

🇩🇪 gefühllos

🇮🇩 dengan tidak berperasaan

🇺🇦 безсердечно

🇵🇱 bezdusznie

🇯🇵 無情に

🇫🇷 insensiblement

🇪🇸 insensiblemente

🇹🇷 duygusuzca

🇰🇷 냉담하게

🇸🇦 بقلب قاسٍ

🇨🇿 bezcitně

🇸🇰 bezcitne

🇨🇳 冷酷地

🇸🇮 brezčutno

🇮🇸 kærleikslaust

🇰🇿 қатігездікпен

🇬🇪 გულგრილად

🇦🇿 qəddarcasına

🇲🇽 insensiblemente

Etymology

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.