Unforgiving Meaning in English
word
Definition
Not willing to forgive mistakes or faults; also describing something harsh or very difficult, with no mercy or allowance for error.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly describes people (lacking forgiveness), but very often used for situations, environments, or conditions that are harsh or have no margin for error ('unforgiving climate', 'unforgiving schedule'). Synonyms: 'ruthless', 'strict', but 'unforgiving' also implies zero tolerance for mistakes.
Example Sentences
This teacher is very unforgiving about mistakes.
basic
The desert is an unforgiving place.
basic
His schedule is unforgiving and leaves no time to rest.
basic
This exam is unforgiving—one small mistake and you lose points.
natural
Winter here can be really unforgiving if you’re not prepared.
natural
He’s an unforgiving coach—he expects nothing but the best.
natural