Hardheartedness is a disposition characterized by a lack of empathy, compassion, or sympathy for others. It manifests as a callous indifference to the suffering or plight of individuals or groups. This emotional detachment often leads to a resistance to showing kindness, forgiveness, or generosity. People exhibiting hardheartedness may appear cold, unfeeling, and unwilling to extend help, offer support, or acknowledge the emotional needs of others. The term encompasses a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild insensitivity to extreme cruelty and vindictiveness. It frequently stems from a combination of factors, including personal experiences, psychological defenses, and learned behaviors. The resulting indifference can damage relationships, foster social isolation, and contribute to broader societal issues.
Hardheartedness meaning with examples
- The CEO's hardheartedness was evident when he refused to acknowledge the employees' concerns during the restructuring process, leading to widespread demoralization and mistrust. He prioritized profits over the well-being of his workforce. This lack of compassion created a hostile work environment, filled with anxiety. Despite the hardship he caused, he remained resolute in his decisions.
- Despite witnessing the homeless man begging in the street, the passerby's hardheartedness prevented them from offering assistance. They dismissed him with a cold indifference, turning away from the man's clear desperation. Such indifference exemplified a failure of basic human decency. The individual moved on without a second thought, content in their personal bubble and ignoring societal issues.
- The judge's hardheartedness was apparent in his unyielding sentencing of the young offender. The child, remorseful for their actions, received the maximum penalty. This rigidity demonstrated a disregard for the mitigating circumstances of the case, showing no grace or understanding for the possibility of rehabilitation. Many viewers felt the sentence was unjust and excessively punitive.
- Following the natural disaster, the aid organization's hardheartedness was shocking. They denied food and shelter to the stranded survivors based on convoluted bureaucratic rules. Their inflexibility exacerbated the already dire situation. This cold efficiency created widespread outrage. The affected people, left vulnerable and deprived, suffered in unimaginable conditions.
Hardheartedness Synonyms
apathy callousness coldness cruelty heartlessness indifference insensitivity mercilessness ruthlessness unfeelingnessHardheartedness Antonyms
benevolence compassion consideration empathy generosity humanity kindness sympathy tenderness warmheartednessHardheartedness Crossword Answers
13 Letters
HEARTLESSNESS
15 Letters
COLDHEARTEDNESS