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Showing results for unforgiving. Search instead for unforgivingn.
Definitions

unforgiving

[uhn-fer-giv-ing] / ˌʌn fərˈgɪv ɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
merciless
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cruel heartless relentless ruthless unrelenting
WEAK
pitiless remorseless revengeful uncompassionate unkind unsympathetic
Antonyms
STRONGEST
compassionate considerate feeling gentle kind merciful nice sympathetic
WEAK
bright easy forgiving remorseful tolerant
ADJECTIVE
hostile
Synonyms
STRONGEST
demanding grim harsh
WEAK
difficult hard severe uncharitable unkind
Antonyms
STRONGEST
easy
WEAK
bright compassionate forgiving kind merciful remorseful sympathetic tolerant

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.

Burnt garlic is acrid and unforgiving; here, it should dissolve into the base of the sauce, barely visible but deeply present.

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

He has little of Karp’s genteel bedside manner or public profile and is known instead for an unforgiving style and hard-driving perfectionism.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Addressing the Australian parliament on Tuesday, von der Leyen described a world that was "brutal, harsh and unforgiving".

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

Beattie says that, amid unforgiving moments, Galthie could also create occasions away from rugby to draw his team together.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

To be caught in some small transgression—missing a day of work, speaking harshly of his rule, failing to attend mass— brought an unforgiving penalty.

From "Crispin: The Cross of Lead" by Avi