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

BlackRock Chairman and CEO Larry Fink has an unforgiving message to private-credit investors who want to exit their funds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 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

Also, the unforgiving heat while shooting outdoor scenes wasn’t fun but also wasn’t a total negative, says Driver.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

The unforgiving November wind blows me towards the building.

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson

unforgiving

Example Sentences

Related Words