C1nounformalemotionsbusiness
US/ˈruːθ.ləs.nəs/
UK/ˈruːθ.ləs.nəs/
the quality of being hard and cruel, without pity, in order to get what you want
In context
The CEO was known for his ruthlessness in cutting costs.
Her ruthlessness shocked colleagues who had thought of her as kind.
The film shows the ruthlessness of life on the streets.
Words that go with ruthlessness
adjective + noun
- sheer ruthlessnessHe rose to power through sheer ruthlessness.
- cold ruthlessnessShe acted with cold ruthlessness and felt no regret.
noun + noun
- business ruthlessnessBusiness ruthlessness is often admired in this industry.
verb + noun
- show ruthlessnessThe army showed ruthlessness toward its enemies.
noun + preposition
- ruthlessness ofThe ruthlessness of the attack surprised the whole country.
- with ruthlessnessThe team defended with ruthlessness and efficiency.