Callousness: meaning, definitions and examples

Callousness is best used when referring to a lack of empathy or concern for others' feelings. It describes someone who is emotionally hardened.

• His callousness was clear when he laughed during the sad scene in the movie

Heartlessness is used to describe someone who is completely indifferent to others' suffering, often in a harsh or brutal way.

• Her heartlessness was evident when she fired the employee without listening to his side of the story

Cruelty is appropriate when describing behavior that intentionally causes pain or suffering to others. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The cruelty of the dictator left millions of people in misery

Indifference is best when indicating a lack of interest or concern. It can be neutral or slightly negative depending on the context.

• His indifference to the news of the accident puzzled his friends

Callousness is best used to describe a person's behavior that shows a complete lack of concern or sympathy for others. It conveys a deep level of emotional detachment and indifference.

• The manager's callousness towards the laid-off employees was shocking.
• Her callousness made it hard for others to trust her.

Insensitivity is a mannerism that shows a lack of awareness or regard for the feelings and sentiments of others. It suggests ignorance or indifference, often unintentionally.

• Her insensitivity to his struggles strained their friendship.
• The insensitivity of the joke made everyone uncomfortable.

Coldness refers to an emotional or physical demeanor that is detached and lacks warmth. It might not be as deeply negative as callousness but still indicates a lack of friendliness or emotion.

• His coldness towards the new team member created a hostile work environment.
• The coldness in her voice made it clear she was not interested in continuing the conversation.

Harshness is used to describe behavior, comments, or environments that are unkind, severe, or cruel. It can be applied to both physical and emotional contexts.

• The harshness of his critique left the young artist in tears.
• The winter's harshness made living conditions unbearable.