cruel

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When Geoffrey Owens was photographed working at a Trader Joe’s in 2018, the reaction was swift, and, in many corners, cruel.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

Given a slight tweak, “The Stranger” could be a film noir about a man who simply drifts along the currents of a cruel universe.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Baschek said the whale's breathing and reaction to rescuers had deteriorated, and that the chances of coaxing him out of the bay were so slim it would be cruel to try.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Russian women say the idea of "therapising" them into having children is coercive, cruel and unworkable, and will do little to reverse declining birth rates -- currently at their lowest in 200 years.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

How cruel to have to leave all these behind!

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom