Cruel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cruel
[ˈkruːəl ]
Definitions
behavior
Willfully causing pain or suffering to others, or feeling no concern about it.
Synonyms
brutal, harsh, inhumane, merciless.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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cruel |
Describes someone or something that causes suffering or pain intentionally. Often used to talk about people who are mean or act unkindly without reason.
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inhumane |
Describes actions or conditions that lack compassion and are cruelly indifferent to suffering. Often used in contexts related to human rights or animal welfare.
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harsh |
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.
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merciless |
Indicates a complete lack of mercy or pity. It often describes people or actions that are unrelenting in their cruelty.
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brutal |
Indicates extreme violence or ruthlessness. Typically used to describe physical actions, events, or behaviors that are especially violent or merciless.
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Examples of usage
- He was known for his cruel treatment of animals.
- The dictator's cruel regime oppressed its citizens with violence and fear.
- The cruel comments made by the bully left a lasting impact on the victim.
weather
Causing pain or suffering due to harsh or severe conditions.
Synonyms
brutal, harsh, severe, unforgiving.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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cruel |
Use 'cruel' when describing someone or something that causes pain or suffering intentionally.
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severe |
Use 'severe' when something serious and intense, often related to conditions or punishment.
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harsh |
Use 'harsh' to describe something severe or stern, often in regard to criticism, climate, or conditions.
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brutal |
Use 'brutal' to describe something extremely violent or harsh, usually in a physical sense.
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unforgiving |
Use 'unforgiving' when someone or something does not show mercy or flexibility. This can refer to people, weather, or situations.
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Examples of usage
- The cruel winter storm brought freezing temperatures and heavy snow.
- The desert's cruel heat made survival difficult for the lost hiker.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'cruel'
The word 'cruel' originated from the Old French word 'cruel', which is derived from the Latin word 'crudelis' meaning 'ruthless' or 'hard-hearted'. The concept of cruelty has been present throughout history, often associated with acts of violence, oppression, and inhumanity.
Word Frequency Rank
At #5,124 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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- 5121 severity
- 5122 suicide
- 5123 incorporation
- 5124 cruel
- 5125 regiment
- 5126 selecting
- 5127 consolidated
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