adj
unforgiving
Unforgiving (adj) means unwilling to forgive others or show mercy. Example: “His father was a harsh, unforgiving man.”
adj
1
Unwilling to forgive others or show mercy.
"His father was a harsh, unforgiving man."
2
Allowing no room for error; harsh or difficult.
"The desert's unforgiving heat killed three of the hikers."
"It's an unforgiving sport where one mistake can end your season."
How to use unforgiving
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot willing to forgive, or (of a place, task, or activity) leaving no margin for error.
Common pairings
unforgiving terrain
unforgiving climate
unforgiving nature
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more unforgiving
- Superlative
- most unforgiving
Fill the gap
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His father was a harsh, _____ man.
Etymology
From un- + forgiving.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for unforgiving
living
giving
diving
driving
striving
thriving
reviving
reliving
receiving
surviving
deceiving
forgiving
See all rhymes for unforgiving →
Frequently asked questions
What does “unforgiving” mean?
The word “unforgiving” means unwilling to forgive others or show mercy. In plain terms, not willing to forgive, or (of a place, task, or activity) leaving no margin for error.
How do you use “unforgiving” in a sentence?
Here is “unforgiving” used in a sentence: “His father was a harsh, unforgiving man.”
What part of speech is “unforgiving”?
“Unforgiving” is an adjective.
How many meanings does “unforgiving” have?
“Unforgiving” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unwilling to forgive others or show mercy.
