Adjective
/dɛs.piˈa.ðaðo/
"Despiadado" is an adjective used to describe someone who is cruel and shows no mercy or compassion. It can refer to actions, behaviors, or attitudes that lack empathy, often highlighting a disposition towards harshness or severity.
In terms of frequency, "despiadado" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, especially in literature, journalism, and discussions about moral or ethical conduct. It’s often employed to depict not just individuals but also organizations, situations, or actions that are considered brutally harsh.
"Su comportamiento despiadado causó el sufrimiento de muchas personas."
"His ruthless behavior caused the suffering of many people."
"El despiadado cazar de ballenas está llevando a esta especie al borde de la extinción."
"The ruthless whaling is pushing this species to the brink of extinction."
"El despiadado crítico destruyó la confianza del joven artista."
"The heartless critic destroyed the young artist's confidence."
While "despiadado" itself is not typically used in fixed idiomatic expressions, its meaning lends itself to being part of various phrases and contexts where cruelty or harshness is emphasized. Here are some relevant examples:
"De corazón despiadado."
"With a heartless heart."
This expression refers to someone who is completely devoid of compassion.
"Actuar con despiadada frialdad."
"To act with ruthless coldness."
This phrase describes someone who performs an action without any emotional warmth or compassion.
"Estrategias despiadadas."
"Ruthless strategies."
Often used in business contexts to describe cutthroat practices without regard for ethics or morality.
"Un líder despiadado."
"A ruthless leader."
This is used to describe a leader who governs with harshness, showing no mercy toward opposition.
The word "despiadado" comes from the Spanish prefix "des-" which implies negation, combined with "piedad," meaning mercy or compassion. Therefore, "despiadado" literally translates to "without mercy." It has its roots in Latin "pietas," which relates to piety, mercy, or compassion.
Synonyms: - Cruel - Implacable - Inexorable - Desalmado (heartless)
Antonyms: - Benévolo (benevolent) - Compasivo (compassionate) - Indulgente (lenient) - Misericordioso (merciful)