Synonyms for

Cruelty

Verb / ˈkru:lti: / / ˈkru:ʌlti: / Another word for cruelty — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Cruel behavior or treatment towards others.

Synonyms & similar words

mercilessness inhumantreatment ruthlessness harshness pitilessness cruelness brutality inhumanity barbarism savagery ferocity viciousness ruthlessness malevolence sadism malice harshness unkindness severity cruelness mercilessness pitilessness callousness heartlessness cruelism atrociousness

Synonyms by register

Formal

inhumanity sadism atrocity barbarity

Informal

meanness nastiness wickedness

Literary

ruthlessness ferocity

Antonyms

kindness compassion benevolence mercy humanity gentleness sympathy

Common collocations

  • animal cruelty
  • child cruelty
  • cruelty to animals
  • cruelty to children
  • utter cruelty
  • shocking cruelty
  • acts of cruelty

Word family

noun cruelty
verb crucify
adjective cruel

Usage note

Cruelty refers to the intentional infliction of pain or suffering. It often carries a strong negative connotation and is frequently associated with actions towards vulnerable beings.

Example sentences

  1. The cruelty of the hunter towards the animals made me sick to the stomach.
  2. The teacher couldn't tolerate the cruelty of the bullies towards the new student.
  3. The cruelty of the dictator towards his people led to a rebellion.
  4. The cruelty of the circus owners towards the elephants outraged animal rights activists.
  5. The cruelty of the stepmother towards Cinderella is well-known in the fairy tale.

Quotes

  • Cruelty, like every other vice, requires no motive outside of itself; it only requires opportunity.
  • There is no greater cruelty than a tyrannical government that tries to control every aspect of its citizens' lives.
  • The only way to fight cruelty is with kindness.

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