What is another word for cruel
Find antonyms of words, enhance your English language skills
cruel
/ˈkruː.əl/
Deliberately causing pain or suffering to others, or feeling no concern about it.
Antonyms of cruel
Adjectives
Strongest matches:
- kind
- compassionate
- humane
- benevolent
- merciful
- gentle
Weak matches:
- sympathetic
- considerate
- lenient
- tolerant
Synonyms
harsh, brutal, savage, vicious, merciless, ruthless, inhumane, heartless, callous, unkind, sadistic
Usage examples:
1. The cruel winter storm left many homeless people struggling to find shelter, showcasing nature's merciless side.
2. Her supervisor's cruel comments about her work shattered her confidence and made her dread coming to the office every day.
3. It was a cruel twist of fate that they missed their flight by just a few minutes.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a common antonym for 'cruel'?
A common antonym for 'cruel' is 'kind.' While 'cruel' describes someone who is deliberately hurtful or lacking in humaneness, 'kind' refers to someone who is generous, helpful, and caring towards others.
Can 'compassionate' be considered an antonym of 'cruel'?
Yes, 'compassionate' is an antonym of 'cruel.' Compassionate refers to having or showing sympathy and concern for others, especially those who are suffering, making it directly opposed to the harm and indifference implied by cruelty.
Is 'gentle' a suitable antonym for 'cruel,' and in what context?
Yes, 'gentle' can be considered an antonym for 'cruel' in contexts that involve physical or emotional treatment of others. While 'cruel' actions are harsh and painful, 'gentle' actions are soft, tender, and careful, showing consideration for the wellbeing of others.
How does 'merciful' act as an antonym to 'cruel,' and in what scenarios is it most applicable?
'Merciful' acts as an antonym to 'cruel' by embodying the quality of showing mercy or compassion, especially towards someone over whom one has power or control. This is most applicable in legal, judicial, or conflict scenarios, where the option to punish or forgive is present, and choosing mercy over harsh punishment is the antithesis of cruelty.