Cruel: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes someone or something that causes suffering or pain intentionally. Often used to talk about people who are mean or act unkindly without reason.

• It's cruel to tease someone about their appearance.
• The dictator was cruel and unforgiving.

Describes actions or conditions that lack compassion and are cruelly indifferent to suffering. Often used in contexts related to human rights or animal welfare.

• The conditions in the prison were inhumane.
• Keeping animals in such small cages is inhumane.

Refers to something severe or strict in a way that is unpleasant or difficult to endure. Can describe both physical conditions and personal attitudes or actions.

• Living in such a harsh climate is challenging.
• The teacher's criticism was harsh and demotivating.

Indicates a complete lack of mercy or pity. It often describes people or actions that are unrelenting in their cruelty.

• The merciless ruler showed no pity for the rebels.
• Her response was merciless, destroying his confidence completely.

Indicates extreme violence or ruthlessness. Typically used to describe physical actions, events, or behaviors that are especially violent or merciless.

• The attack was brutal, leaving many injured.
• His words were brutal and left her in tears.

Use 'cruel' when describing someone or something that causes pain or suffering intentionally.

• He was a cruel ruler who oppressed his people
• The children were being cruel to the stray dog

Use 'severe' when something serious and intense, often related to conditions or punishment.

• The country faced severe economic challenges
• The judge gave a severe sentence to the criminal

Use 'harsh' to describe something severe or stern, often in regard to criticism, climate, or conditions.

• The teacher's criticism was harsh but fair
• The desert climate is known to be extremely harsh

Use 'brutal' to describe something extremely violent or harsh, usually in a physical sense.

• The attack was so brutal that it shocked the whole community
• The interrogation tactics were brutal and inhumane

Use 'unforgiving' when someone or something does not show mercy or flexibility. This can refer to people, weather, or situations.

• She had an unforgiving nature and held grudges for a long time
• The mountain terrain was unforgiving to inexperienced climbers