Word
ruthless
Phoneticsruth·less, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɹuθɫəs/
UK/ɹˈuːθləs/
Definitions
01cruel and pitiless
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. having no pity or sympathy for others; being very cruel to get what you want.
adj. devoid of pity, compassion, or mercy; exhibiting a cold-hearted willingness to cause suffering.
“The ruthless dictator stayed in power by punishing anyone who disagreed with him.”
“The regime was known for its ruthless suppression of dissent, often using extreme measures to silence even the mildest critics.”
Usage
Often used to describe leaders, criminals, or specific acts of violence.
Antonyms
02determined and uncompromising
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. doing whatever is necessary to succeed, even if it seems harsh or unfair.
adj. characterised by an unrelenting and uncompromising determination to achieve an objective, regardless of the cost to others.
“She is a ruthless businesswoman who will do anything to beat her competitors.”
“In the ruthless world of high finance, traders often prioritise short-term gains over ethical considerations or long-term stability.”
Usage
Commonly used in business, sports, and politics to describe intense competition.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Sometimes you have to take tough decisions."
It is a ruthless outcome for the Spain international, who was backed publicly by Alonso and privately by senior figures at the club before they changed course.” “He went on to become a celebrated—some would say ruthless —“ Indian fighter ” in the American West, as well as a best-selling author and magazine writer .” Etymology
From Middle English reuþeles; equivalent to ruth + -less.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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