relentless
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
continuing without stopping or getting weaker, often in an annoying or tiring way.
unremitting and steady in pace or intensity; often used to describe sounds, weather, or pressure.
Simple“The relentless noise from the construction site made it impossible to sleep.”
In context“The relentless rain throughout the weekend caused significant delays in the outdoor restoration project.”
UsageUsually placed before the noun it describes.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
refusing to give up or be less strict.
unyielding or inflexible in purpose, severity, or determination.
Simple“The team was relentless in their search for the truth.”
In context“The prosecutor was relentless in his cross-examination, refusing to let the witness avoid the difficult questions.”
Teacher's tipWhile often negative, this can be used as a compliment for someone's work ethic or determination.
Synonyms
Usage relentless accusations
“This summer’s relentless heat has meant that some have been forced to cancel surgeries because operating theatres have become dangerously hot.”
“The centre’s director, Dr Karmele Llano Sánchez, said in her latest update that battling the fire had been relentless.”
From relent + -less.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.