B2 — Upper Intermediateadjective
spietato
ruthless, merciless, relentless
Synonyms (≈ similar meaning)
crudeleimplacabileferoceinesorabileduro
Antonyms (≠ opposite meaning)
clementecompassionevolemisericordiosogentilepietoso
Usage note
'Spietato' (pitiless) comes from 'pietà' (pity). 'Implacabile' means implacable/relentless. 'Inesorabile' is formal (inexorable — cannot be moved by prayer or entreaty). 'Feroce' adds savagery. 'Clemente' (antonym) means merciful.
Example
"È un uomo d'affari spietato: non fa sconti a nessuno."
"He is a ruthless businessman: he gives no quarter to anyone."
Practice Italian grammar
Free exercises, mini-exams and placement test.