Merciless: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe situations or people who show no compassion or pity, often in harsh or unforgiving scenarios.

• The merciless storm destroyed everything in its path
• The dictator was merciless towards his enemies

Conveys a sense of being determined and unrelenting in pursuit of goals, often at the expense of others, without consideration for their feelings.

• The ruthless businessman crushed all his competitors
• She pursued her ambitions with ruthless determination

Used in situations where complete lack of pity or remorse is shown, often describing actions perceived as very harsh or severe.

• The pitiless sun beat down on the desert travelers
• Her pitiless criticism made him feel worthless

Implying deliberate intent to cause pain or suffering, this word often describes someone who enjoys inflicting pain or being unkind.

• The cruel king punished the innocent peasants
• It was cruel of him to mock her like that

Emphasizing a lack of empathy or compassion, often used when someone is indifferent to the suffering of others.

• She was heartless to leave her dog behind
• His heartless rejection left her devastated

Used to describe someone who shows no mercy or compassion, often in harsh situations.

• The dictator ruled mercilessly, crushing any form of dissent

Typically describes someone who acts with a single-minded focus on achieving their goals, regardless of the harm they cause to others. Often used in competitive or high-stakes environments.

• The businesswoman climbed the corporate ladder ruthlessly, letting nothing and no one stand in her way

Best used in situations where someone acts without pity, especially in scenarios where pity might be expected.

• The company pitilessly laid off hundreds of workers just before the holidays

Employed when someone acts in a way that causes pain or suffering. It often implies personal enjoyment or indifference to the suffering caused.

• He teased the stray dog cruelly, showing no empathy for the poor animal

Suitable for circumstances where someone feels no guilt or regret for their actions, often in the context of repeated or ongoing behavior.

• The con artist remorselessly scammed elderly people out of their life savings