Remorselessly: meaning, definitions and examples

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remorselessly

 

[rɪˈmɔːsləsli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

behavior

In a way that shows no regret or guilt for one's actions; mercilessly.

Synonyms

cruelly, mercilessly, pitilessly, ruthlessly.

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Word Description / Examples
remorselessly

This word is best used to describe actions done without any sense of regret or guilt. It often has a connotation of ongoing and unyielding behavior.

  • He pursued his goals remorselessly, never pausing to consider the impact on others.
mercilessly

Use this word when emphasizing the complete lack of mercy or compassion in someone's actions. It often implies harsh and unkind behavior.

  • The coach pushed the players mercilessly, ignoring their pleas for a break.
pitilessly

This term is appropriate when describing actions that are particularly harsh and show no pity. It focuses more on the intensity of the lack of compassion.

  • The wind howled pitilessly, leaving the travelers to suffer in the cold.
ruthlessly

This word is about actions done with intense determination and a disregard for the consequences on others. It's often used in competitive or business contexts.

  • She climbed the corporate ladder ruthlessly, leaving a trail of disgruntled colleagues behind her.
cruelly

This word describes actions done in a way that deliberately causes pain or suffering. It is used when emphasizing the harshness or brutality of the behavior.

  • The dictator's forces treated the prisoners cruelly, showing no mercy.

Examples of usage

  • He remorselessly pursued his goal, no matter the cost.
  • The dictator remorselessly oppressed his people for years.
  • She spoke remorselessly, not caring about the consequences.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the word 'remorse,' which means feeling sorry for something you did, with the suffix '-less' indicating without.
  • It originated in the early 17th century, reflecting a time when emotions were viewed in a more complex way.
  • Before the modern use, the root word 'remorse' was used in Old French and Latin to describe deep regret.

Literature

  • Characters depicted as remorseless often serve as antagonists, highlighting the struggle between good and evil.
  • Famous literary figures, like Macbeth, illustrate the theme of remorselessness through their ruthless actions without guilt.
  • In Shakespeare’s plays, such as 'Julius Caesar,' remorseless behavior emphasizes the tragedy of ambition.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people exhibiting remorseless behavior may have higher levels of psychopathy, indicating a lack of empathy.
  • Remorseless actions can lead to difficulties in forming healthy relationships due to the absence of guilt or remorse.
  • Understanding why some individuals act remorselessly can help in therapeutic settings to address personality disorders.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies feature remorseless villains whose lack of guilt adds to their fearsome reputation.
  • In popular songs, themes of remorseless behavior often explore heartbreak, betrayal, and the consequences of one's actions.
  • Television series sometimes explore remorseless characters to discuss moral ambiguity and the nature of justice.

Philosophy

  • Philosophical discussions on morality often include remorselessness to examine the nature of right versus wrong.
  • Some ethical theories argue that a lack of remorse can lead to a breakdown in social contracts and community values.
  • The issue of punishment is often debated in relation to those who act remorselessly, questioning the effectiveness of rehabilitation.

Translations

Translations of the word "remorselessly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 implacavelmente

🇮🇳 निर्दयतापूर्वक

🇩🇪 unerbittlich

🇮🇩 tanpa ampun

🇺🇦 безжально

🇵🇱 bezlitośnie

🇯🇵 容赦なく

🇫🇷 impitoyablement

🇪🇸 implacablemente

🇹🇷 acımasızca

🇰🇷 무자비하게

🇸🇦 بلا رحمة

🇨🇿 nemilosrdně

🇸🇰 nemilosrdne

🇨🇳 无情地

🇸🇮 neizprosno

🇮🇸 miskunnarlaust

🇰🇿 аяусыз

🇬🇪 უშრეტად

🇦🇿 amansızca

🇲🇽 implacablemente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,014 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.