# ruthless

/ˈɹuθɫəs/ (US) · /ɹˈuːθləs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ruthless
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. cruel and pitiless

adjective · CEFR B2

having no pity or sympathy for others; being very cruel to get what you want.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. determined and uncompromising

adjective · CEFR B2

doing whatever is necessary to succeed, even if it seems harsh or unfair.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The ruthless businessman fired everyone to save money.
- To win the championship, the team played with a ruthless efficiency that left their opponents no room for error.
- Historians often debate whether his ruthless suppression of dissent was a calculated necessity for stability or merely the byproduct of a cruel temperament.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.