How Do You Spell UNMERCIFULLY?

Pronunciation: [ʌnmˈɜːsɪfəlɪ] (IPA)

The word "unmercifully" is spelled using the following phonetic transcription: ʌnˈmɜːsɪfəli. The "un" prefix denotes negation or opposite, while the root word "mercifully" means forgiving or lenient. The "merci" portion of the word is pronounced as mɜːsi. The suffix "-ful" indicates the quality of being merciful, while the suffix "-ly" denotes the adverbial form. The final syllable of the word is pronounced as li. Therefore, "unmercifully" means without mercy or compassion.

UNMERCIFULLY Meaning and Definition

1. Unmercifully is an adverb that describes an action or behavior lacking mercy or compassion, often to an excessive or extreme degree. It is derived from the word "merciful," which refers to being kind, compassionate, or forgiving, especially towards those who are suffering or in need.

   When used to characterize an action, "unmercifully" implies a deliberate and sustained cruelty or harshness. It amplifies the severity of the action, illustrating a lack of empathy or consideration for the consequences. For instance, if someone is hit unmercifully, it suggests that they were subjected to relentless and merciless blows with no respite or acknowledgement of their pain.

   Similarly, "unmercifully" can be used to depict someone's behavior or treatment towards others as brutal, unkind, or inhumane. It suggests someone who is unwilling to show mercy or compassion, regardless of the circumstances. An example of this could be a boss who criticizes an employee's work unmercifully, constantly berating them and showing no understanding or empathy towards their efforts.

   In summary, "unmercifully" indicates the absence of mercy, compassion, or kindness in an action or behavior. It portrays a relentless and excessive cruelty, highlighting a complete disregard for the well-being or feelings of others.

2. Without mercy.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNMERCIFULLY

• unmerciefully
• unmercifull
• unmercyfully
• unmercifly
• ynmercifully
• unmecifully
• unmercifullly
• Unmanifully
• Unmercifulle
• ummercifull

Etymology of UNMERCIFULLY

The word "unmercifully" originated from the combination of two elements: "un-" and "mercifully".

1. "Un-" is a prefix derived from Old English and is used to indicate negation, deprivation, or reversal. It is attached to adjectives or adverbs to create new words with opposite meanings. In the case of "unmercifully", the "un-" prefix negates the meaning of the base word.

2. "Mercifully" is the adverb form of "merciful", which is derived from the noun "mercy". "Mercy" comes from Middle English "mercy", from Old French "merci", ultimately from Latin "mercedem" meaning "reward, wages, favor, grace, pity". Over time, "mercy" evolved to mean compassionate treatment, forgiveness, or relief from harm or suffering.

Similar spelling words for UNMERCIFULLY

• unmercenary,
• unregretful,
• unmercifulness,
• unmerciful.