Adjective
/ˈkɾuel/
In Spanish, the word "cruel" refers to behavior that causes pain or suffering, often involving a lack of compassion or empathy. It is used in both general and legal contexts to describe actions, policies, or behaviors that are inhumane or merciless. The frequency of use of "cruel" is relatively high, especially in discussions about moral issues, justice, and human rights. It is used both in oral speech and written contexts, with a slight preference for written forms in legal discussions.
His treatment of animals is very cruel.
Las leyes que permiten la pena de muerte son consideradas crueles por muchos.
Laws that permit the death penalty are considered cruel by many.
Fue un acto cruel lo que hicieron con él.
The word "cruel" is often used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish that emphasize its meaning of harshness or brutality.
Sometimes the truth is crueler than the lie.
Fue un golpe cruel para su carrera.
It was a cruel blow to his career.
La vida puede ser cruel.
Life can be cruel.
Un castigo cruel no es siempre justo.
A cruel punishment is not always fair.
La justicia a veces actúa de manera cruel.
Justice sometimes acts in a cruel manner.
No seas tan cruel.
The term "cruel" derives from the Latin word "cruelis," which means "of or pertaining to a raw wound." The root "crudus" means "raw" or "rough," reflecting the idea of causing pain.