Unmerciful: meaning, definitions and examples

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unmerciful

 

[ ʌnˈmɜːrsɪfəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

lack of mercy

The term 'unmerciful' refers to a state or quality of being without mercy or compassion. It describes actions or behaviors that are harsh, relentless, or brutal, often causing suffering without remorse. This word can apply to individuals, circumstances, or entities that show no kindness or pity toward others. Unmerciful treatment is often seen in contexts of punishment, conflict, or judgment.

Synonyms

cruel, harsh, heartless, pitiless, ruthless

Examples of usage

  • The unmerciful dictator oppressed his people.
  • She faced unmerciful criticism for her decisions.
  • The unmerciful storm destroyed many homes.
  • His unmerciful attitude alienated his friends.

Translations

Translations of the word "unmerciful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 implacável

🇮🇳 निर्दयी

🇩🇪 erbarmungslos

🇮🇩 tanpa ampun

🇺🇦 безжальний

🇵🇱 bezwzględny

🇯🇵 無情な

🇫🇷 impitoyable

🇪🇸 desalmado

🇹🇷 merhametsiz

🇰🇷 무자비한

🇸🇦 لا رحمة

🇨🇿 nemilosrdný

🇸🇰 neúprosný

🇨🇳 无情的

🇸🇮 neusmiljen

🇮🇸 harðlyndur

🇰🇿 қайырымсыз

🇬🇪 უსაყვედურო

🇦🇿 rəhmssiz

🇲🇽 desalmado

Etymology

The word 'unmerciful' is formed from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the adjective 'merciful', which is derived from the Latin word 'merces' meaning 'reward' or 'wages'. In Old French, 'merci' evolved to mean 'mercy', signifying kindness and compassion shown to someone who could be treated harshly. The transition to English solidified its meaning as the opposite of mercy, highlighting a lack of pity or compassion. 'Unmerciful' has been used in English literature since at least the late 15th century, illustrating various contexts of cruelty and severe punishment. This term often emerges in religious texts and moral discussions, providing a stark contrast to virtues like forgiveness and kindness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,073 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.