khắc bạc
Definition
- Adjective:
- Harsh and unkind: Describes a person's character, attitude, or words as severely strict, ungenerous, and lacking in warmth or compassion.
- Mean-spirited and cruel: Suggests a nature that is not only strict but also inclined to be malicious or severely unforgiving.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Ông chủ đó nổi tiếng là người khắc bạc. (That boss is famous for being harsh and unkind.)
- Lời phê bình của cô ấy nghe thật khắc bạc. (Her criticism sounded very mean-spirited.)
- Anh ta đối xử với mọi người một cách khắc bạc. (He treats people in a cruel and unforgiving manner.)
Advanced Usage
- This term is often used in literary or formal contexts to describe a severe, unyielding personality. It implies a coldness that goes beyond mere strictness.
Variants and Related Words
- Hà khắc (adj): Severe, rigorous, demanding. (Focuses more on strictness than on malice.)
- Độc ác (adj): Cruel, evil. (Stronger and more directly implies evil intent than .)
- Nghiệt ngã (adj): Merciless, pitiless. (Often describes circumstances or fate, but can also describe people.)
Synonyms
- Harsh: Unpleasantly rough or severe.
- Unkind: Inconsiderate and harsh to others.
- Mean-spirited: Having or showing a malicious, petty, or selfish nature.
Related Idioms
- Lòng dạ khắc bạc: A harsh and unfeeling heart.
- Kẻ phản bội thường có lòng dạ khắc bạc. (Traitors often have a harsh and unfeeling heart.)