unforgiving

adjective

un·​for·​giv·​ing ˌən-fər-ˈgi-viŋ How to pronounce unforgiving (audio)
1
: unwilling or unable to forgive
2
: having or making no allowance for error or weakness
an unforgiving environment where false moves can prove fatalJaclyn 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.
That helplessness amid an unrelenting, unforgiving illness. David Oliver, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025 While Silksong's bosses might be a little tougher, and its jumping challenges a little more precise, its predecessor was also often unforgiving and gated in almost the exact same ways (though some of this difficulty was eventually rebalanced). ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2025 But after years building a reputation in the paranormal space, the Times Leader questioned the credibility of the couple, framing its unforgiving takedown of the duo against the local Pennsylvania case of the Smurl family. Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2025 Gemini's core businesses carry exposure to consumer protection, AML, sanctions, and cybersecurity rules that are expensive to maintain and unforgiving of mistakes. Marie Poteriaieva, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unforgiving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unforgiving. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on unforgiving

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!