Coldheartedness

Coldheartedness is the quality of lacking empathy, compassion, and warmth; demonstrating a callous disregard for the feelings and well-being of others. It manifests as indifference to suffering, a lack of emotional responsiveness, and a calculated approach to interactions, often prioritizing personal gain or self-preservation above all else. Individuals exhibiting coldheartedness may appear detached, unfeeling, and resistant to emotional appeals. It's not merely the absence of positive emotions, but the presence of an active resistance or rejection of empathy, leading to behavior perceived as cruel or unfeeling by others.

Coldheartedness meaning with examples

• The CEO's coldheartedness was evident in the mass layoffs that occurred just before the holidays. He showed no concern for the employees' financial hardship and distress, only focusing on the company's quarterly profits, proving how detached he was and unfeeling.
• After witnessing the tragic accident, she was stunned by his coldheartedness. He barely paused, showing no sympathy for the injured victim or the distraught bystanders, prioritizing getting to his destination over any sense of duty or decency.
• His political decisions were often criticized for their coldheartedness. He'd implement policies that disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, dismissing their concerns and accusations of unfairness as political tactics to be ignored.
• The detective's reputation for coldheartedness made him effective at his job; he never showed an emotional reaction to the disturbing cases he handled. He could distance himself from the victims to focus on the facts to solve the toughest crimes, leaving others shocked.
• Despite being her only family, he was shocked by her coldheartedness when she refused to visit him during his illness. She prioritized her social calendar and work, exhibiting a complete lack of care, displaying how indifferent and disconnected she was.