unforgivingness

A judge's unforgivingness was clear in his stern expression.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Lack of willingness to forgive: "unforgivingness" refers to the quality or state of being unwilling or unable to forgive others for perceived wrongs or offenses. It implies a persistent resentment or refusal to let go of grievances.

Usage Examples

• (Her inability to forgive caused ongoing tension.)
• (The leader's refusal to forgive errors made people afraid.)

Advanced Usage

• "to show unforgivingness": to demonstrate a refusal to forgive.

  • He showed unforgivingness even after a sincere apology. (He did not accept the apology despite its sincerity.)

• "a spirit of unforgivingness": an attitude characterized by lack of forgiveness.

  • A spirit of unforgivingness can poison personal and professional relationships. (An attitude of refusing to forgive can harm connections.)

Variants and Related Words

• Unforgiving (adj): not willing to forgive; showing no mercy.

  • The judge was unforgiving in his sentencing. (The judge showed no leniency.)

• Unforgivably (adv): in a manner that cannot be forgiven.

  • He behaved unforgivably, ruining the event. (His actions were beyond forgiveness.)

Synonyms

• Rancor: deep-seated bitterness or resentment.
• Vindictiveness: a strong desire for revenge.
• Implacability: inability to be appeased or pacified.

Related Idioms

• Hold a grudge: to maintain resentment against someone for a past wrong.

  • She holds a grudge against him for the insult, showing her unforgivingness. (She continues to resent him.)

• Bury the hatchet: to make peace and forgive (antonym of unforgivingness).

  • To overcome unforgivingness, they decided to bury the hatchet. (They chose to forgive and reconcile.)