Hardhearted

Hardhearted describes someone who lacks compassion, empathy, or sympathy. They are indifferent to the suffering of others and may even be callous or cruel. This characteristic often manifests in a lack of emotional response to tragic situations or the deliberate infliction of pain or suffering, whether physical or emotional, on others. Hardheartedness can stem from various factors, including personal experiences, personality traits, or a conscious choice to prioritize self-interest over the well-being of others. The term often implies a degree of emotional coldness and a detachment from human feelings.

Hardhearted meaning with examples

• The wealthy businessman was known for his hardhearted approach to his employees, ruthlessly cutting salaries and benefits to maximize profits. He showed no concern for the financial hardship this caused, prioritizing his own wealth above their well-being. His colleagues often described him as cold and indifferent, completely unmoved by the human cost of his decisions, leaving a trail of devastation in his wake, all for profit.
• Despite the pleas of the impoverished villagers, the government official remained hardhearted and refused to provide aid. He cited budget constraints and bureaucratic red tape, but many believed his indifference was rooted in a lack of care for the plight of the marginalized. His inaction allowed the suffering to worsen, and he seemed to have no emotional investment in their struggles, leading to a feeling of profound despair.
• After years of witnessing betrayal, she became hardhearted, closing herself off emotionally to protect herself from further pain. She built a wall around her heart, making it difficult to form new connections or trust others. Though her actions may have seemed cruel, her heart was broken. The protective shell that she created served as her armor, shielding her from future vulnerability.
• The villain in the story was a hardhearted tyrant, ruling his kingdom with an iron fist and showing no mercy to his subjects. He punished dissent severely and reveled in their fear, enjoying the power it gave him. His cruelty was evident in his laws, and he took pleasure in inflicting pain. The narrative highlights the dehumanizing effect of unchecked power and a cold, detached, and unempathetic personality.
• The judge, known for his hardhearted sentencing, showed no leniency to the defendant, even though it was his first offense. He claimed to be upholding the law, but many believed his severe approach stemmed from a deep-seated cynicism about human nature. His courtroom often felt cold, and his stern demeanor, devoid of empathy, reflected a lack of understanding of the defendant's background. His judgements were feared.