Ruthlessness

C2 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈruθ.ləs.nəs/

Definitions of ruthlessness

noun a noun refers to a person, place, thing, or idea. In this case, 'ruthlessness' is a noun that describes the quality of being merciless or without compassion.

Example Sentences

A1 The dictator ruled with ruthlessness, showing no mercy to his enemies.

A2 The ruthless businessman would do anything to get ahead in the industry.

B1 The detective admired the criminal's ruthlessness in carrying out the heist.

B2 The general's ruthlessness in battle earned him a fearsome reputation among his troops.

C1 The author's portrayal of the main character's ruthlessness added depth to the novel.

C2 The CEO's ruthlessness in business negotiations was both admired and feared by his competitors.

Examples of ruthlessness in a Sentence

formal The ruler's ruthlessness in dealing with dissenters was well-known throughout the kingdom.

informal Her ruthlessness in negotiations earned her a reputation as a tough negotiator.

slang He showed his ruthlessness on the basketball court by trash-talking his opponents.

figurative The storm's ruthlessness was evident in the destruction it left behind.

Grammatical Forms of ruthlessness

past tense

ruthlessnessed

plural

ruthlessnesses

comparative

more ruthless

superlative

most ruthless

present tense

ruthlessnesses

future tense

will ruthlessness

perfect tense

have ruthlessnessed

continuous tense

is ruthlessnessing

singular

ruthlessness

positive degree

ruthless

infinitive

to ruthlessness

gerund

ruthlessnessing

participle

ruthlessnessed

Origin and Evolution of ruthlessness

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'ruthlessness' originated from the Old English word 'rūthleas' which was derived from the Middle English 'rūthles', meaning 'without compassion or mercy'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'ruthlessness' has evolved to encompass a broader sense of lacking pity or remorse, often associated with a cold and calculated approach to achieving one's goals.