What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unkind
Example
It was unkind of him to ignore her when she needed help. [unkind: adjective]
Example
She spoke unkindly about her friend behind her back. [unkindly: adverb]
cruel
Example
It was cruel of him to laugh at her when she fell down. [cruel: adjective]
Example
The dictator's regime was known for its cruel treatment of political prisoners. [cruel: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unkind is more commonly used in everyday language than cruel. Unkind is a milder term that can be used in various contexts, while cruel is more specific and often used to describe extreme behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unkind and cruel?
Both unkind and cruel can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, cruel is generally considered more formal and serious than unkind.
