unforgiving

adjective

un·​for·​giv·​ing ˌən-fər-ˈgi-viŋ How to pronounce unforgiving (audio)
Synonyms of unforgivingnext
1
: unwilling or unable to forgive
2
: having or making no allowance for error or weakness
… an unforgiving environment where false moves can prove fatal.Jaclyn Fierman
unforgivingness noun

Examples of unforgiving in a Sentence

They are unforgiving of the smallest mistake. the unforgiving world of politics
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Skip a beat; lose the rhythm Research from JPMorgan Asset Management shows just how unforgiving market timing can be. Bydoug Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 4 May 2026 Arguably the most entertaining, and unforgiving, runway in the world, forget about the Grammys or even MTV Music Awards at its peak. Alex Badia, Footwear News, 4 May 2026 In the minutes that followed, the crew faced a cascade of unforgiving decisions. James Glanz, New York Times, 1 May 2026 This is especially true in baseball, where the path of the major leagues is often unforgiving. Matthew Kayser, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unforgiving

Word History

First Known Use

1713, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unforgiving was in 1713

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Cite this Entry

“Unforgiving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unforgiving. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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