Ruthless

usgb/ˈruːθləs/
adjective

Having no compassion or pity, very cruel.

The ruthless dictator ruled with an iron fist.
Visual representation of "ruthless" - Having no compassion or pity, very cruel

Often appears as...

  • ruthless dictator
  • ruthless competition

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "ruthless"
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Negative Emotion

Ruthless often implies negative feelings and is used to criticize.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
Her ruthless decision to close the factory upset many.
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Power and Control

Ruthless is commonly used to describe actions in positions of power or competition.

Illustration for Power and Control
He climbed the corporate ladder through ruthless ambition.
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Intensity

Ruthless behavior is extreme and shows a lack of moderation.

Illustration for Intensity
The coach's ruthless training regimen led to many victories.
Word comparison image

Compare with

brutalcruelferociousharshheartlessinhumanmercilesspitilessrelentlessunfeeling
Visual representation of the word "Ruthless"

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