unforgiving

adjective

un·​for·​giv·​ing ˌən-fər-ˈgi-viŋ 

1

: unwilling or unable to forgive

2

: having or making no allowance for error or weakness

an unforgiving environment where false moves can prove fatal

—Jaclyn Fierman

unforgivingness noun

Examples of unforgiving in a Sentence

They are unforgiving of the smallest mistake.

the unforgiving world of politics

Recent Examples on the Web

With his unique musical style and bold lyrics, Toto became the voice of the young generation, masterfully capturing their lives and challenges with an unforgiving writing style that brims with powerful similes and flexible rhymes. —Nour Ezzedine, Billboard, 27 June 2024

Still, people say the system is often unforgiving and difficult to navigate, perhaps as big of a burden as the costs themselves. —Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2024

Welcome to the Hotline’s projections for the toughest, most unforgiving conference in college basketball. —Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 24 June 2024

In the courthouse, Trump spent long stretches of time in an uncomfortable room with the shades always drawn, the fluorescent lighting unforgiving. —Andrea Bernstein, ProPublica, 5 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1713, in the meaning defined at sense 1