unforgiving

adjective

un·​for·​giv·​ing ˌən-fər-ˈgi-viŋ 

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

Streaming has already developed somewhat of a reputation for being unforgiving. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 18 Sep. 2026

Whether someone listened to tri-state area radio or not, Peter Rosenberg’s name carries credibility — something earned, not given — through a career in a difficult and often unforgiving industry. — Shirley Halperin, Rolling Stone, 17 Sep. 2026

And the broader ratings environment is unforgiving, as every TV executive can attest. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 15 Sep. 2026

In payments, the arithmetic is unforgiving, and revenue growth alone tells you almost nothing. — Serhii Zakharov, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1713, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for unforgiving

• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• misgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• thanksgiving
• giving
• living
• sieving