adjective
unbarmherzig
merciless
The German word "unbarmherzig" is an adjective meaning "merciless" or "ruthless".
- It is made up of the components:
- barmherzig: merciful, compassionate
- The prefix un-: negates the word, meaning "not"
Similar words:
- gnadenlos (merciless, relentless)
- herzlos (heartless)
- mitleidlos (pitiless)
Difference:
- Unbarmherzig implies a strict lack of compassion or mercy.
- Gnadenlos emphasizes having no leniency, often harsher and more unforgiving.
- Herzlos suggests a lack of empathy or kindness, more about emotion.
- Mitleidlos focuses strictly on lacking pity.
So, unbarmherzig generally captures a tough, uncompassionate attitude without leniency.
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Examples
Das Leben kann oft unbarmherzig sein.adjective
Life can often be merciless.
Der Winterwind war besonders unbarmherzig gegenüber den Reisenden.adjective
The winter wind was especially merciless toward the travelers.
Die Kritik der Gruppe klang überraschend unbarmherzig.adjective
The group’s criticism sounded surprisingly merciless.
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