# unforgiving

/ənfɝˈɡɪvɪŋ/ (US) · /ʌnfəɡˈɪvɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/unforgiving
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

very difficult to deal with or very strict. You use this to describe a situation or a person that does not give you any mercy.

For teachers: demanding, severe, or difficult to endure. Often used to describe environments, people, or systems that offer no leniency or second chances.

## Examples

- The mountain trail is unforgiving in the winter.
- The new boss is known for being unforgiving of any mistakes, so everyone works very carefully.
- The desert is an unforgiving landscape where a single miscalculation regarding water supply can lead to a fatal outcome for the entire expedition.

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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.