Cruel – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Cruel (adjective)

Cruel is an adjective that describes someone or something that causes pain, suffering, or distress intentionally or without compassion. It often conveys a sense of harshness, heartlessness, or lack of empathy.

Examples

• The teacher’s cruel remarks hurt the student deeply.
• They witnessed a cruel act of animal abuse.
• His cruel laughter made her feel humiliated.
• The cruel dictator showed no mercy to his people.
• It was cruel to leave the puppy out in the cold.
• She endured cruel bullying during her childhood.
• The cruel punishment shocked the entire nation.
• His cruel indifference to their plight was appalling.

Meaning

• Intentionally causing pain or suffering.
• Lacking compassion or kindness.

Pronunciation

• UK: /kruːəl/ (kroo-uhl)
• US: /kruːl/ (krool)

Synonyms

• Brutal
• Heartless
• Merciless
• Ruthless
• Savage
• Harsh
• Pitiless
• Barbaric
• Inhumane
• Malevolent
• Callous
• Fierce
• Malicious
• Sadistic
• Vindictive

Usage Tips for Cruel

• It describes behaviour, actions, or words that are harsh or cause pain.
• It is often associated with intentional harm or a lack of empathy.
• Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or trivial issues.
• Commonly used in contexts involving harm, suffering, or punishment.
• It can refer to people, actions, or even natural forces (e.g., “a cruel storm”).

Origin

Cruel (1200–1300):

• It is derived from the Old French cruel, meaning severe or harsh.
• From Latin crūdēlis, rooted in crūdus (raw or bloody).

Similar Words to Cruel

• Brutal
• Heartless
• Sadistic
• Barbaric
• Ruthless
• Merciless
• Malicious
• Vindictive
• Inhumane
• Callous

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of cruel in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, cruel means ظالم or سنگدل.

Q: How do we use cruel in a sentence?

Ans: The cruel treatment of animals sparked public outrage.

Q: What’s the difference between cruel and harsh?

Ans: Cruel refers to intentional cruelty or malice, while harsh describes something severe or difficult, often without the same intention to harm.

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