Ruthlessly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word combines 'ruth,' an old term meaning 'compassion' or 'pity,' and the suffix '-less,' which means 'without.'
• First recorded use of the term dates back to the 14th century, indicating how long this concept of lacking mercy has existed.

Psychology

• Many psychologists suggest that ruthlessness can stem from a lack of empathy, often seen in high-stress environments.
• Research shows that individuals who act ruthlessly may experience a temporary boost in success in competitive scenarios, but it can harm relationships.

Literature

• Characters depicted as ruthless often appear in tragic stories, showcasing the consequences of extreme ambition or moral blindness.
• Classic works, like 'Macbeth,' illustrate ruthlessness as a trait that leads to downfall, emphasizing a moral lesson about the dangers of such behavior.

Pop Culture

• In films and books, ruthless villains are common, representing the darker side of human nature; think of characters like Darth Vader from 'Star Wars.'
• Reality TV often showcases ruthless competition, highlighting how some contestants will go to any length to win, stirring viewer interest and drama.

Business

• In the corporate world, being ruthless can imply making tough decisions for profit, sometimes at the expense of employee welfare.
• While some admire ruthless business leaders for their results, others criticize them for lack of ethics and compassion.

With rank #18,344, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 18341 baffle
• 18342 heretic
• 18343 docile
• 18344 ruthlessly
• 18345 shaman
• 18346 interstellar
• 18347 disclaimed
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