What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inhumanely
Example
The prisoners were treated inhumanely by their captors. [inhumanely: adverb]
Example
It is inhumane to keep animals in such cramped and dirty conditions. [inhumane: adjective]
cruelly
Example
The bullies taunted and teased the new student cruelly. [cruelly: adverb]
Example
It was cruel to abandon the puppy on the side of the road. [cruel: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cruelly is more commonly used than inhumanely in everyday language, as it is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts. Inhumanely is more formal and academic, and is often used in discussions of social justice, human rights, or animal welfare.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inhumanely and cruelly?
Inhumanely is more formal and academic than cruelly, which is more commonly used in everyday language. Both words have negative connotations and are associated with immoral or unethical behavior.
