brutality
n. C / U B2 Upper Intermediate US //bɹuˈtæɫəti// UK //bɹuːtˈælɪti// bru·tal·i·ty
n. very cruel and violent behavior. It describes actions that show no pity or kindness toward others.
n. the quality of being extremely cruel, violent, or ruthless. Often used to describe physical violence or the harsh exercise of power.
The film shows the brutality of war.
The international community condemned the brutality of the regime after reports of human rights abuses surfaced.
The novel explores the inherent brutality of the frontier, where the absence of formal law often led to unchecked violence and systemic cruelty.
From brutal + -ity.
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the general quality; countable when referring to specific acts of violence ('brutalities').