Meaning and Usage
"冷酷" (れいこく) describes a person's attitude or behavior that is cold, unfeeling, or ruthless. It often implies a lack of empathy or compassion, and can be used to criticize someone who acts harshly or without consideration for others.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in formal or literary contexts to describe harsh decisions, strict leadership, or emotionally distant behavior. It can apply to both actions and personality traits.
Collocations and Patterns
- 冷酷な態度 (れいこくなたいど): coldhearted attitude, used to describe someone's manner toward others.
- 冷酷な判断 (れいこくなはんだん): ruthless decision, often in business or moral contexts.
- 冷酷さ (れいこくさ): the noun form meaning coldheartedness or cruelty.
Nuances
Using "冷酷" suggests a strong negative judgment about someone's lack of warmth or kindness. It is more severe than just being "冷たい" (cold) and implies intentional harshness or cruelty.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "冷酷" with "冷たい" which can mean physically cold or emotionally distant but less harsh. Remember that "冷酷" carries a stronger, more negative connotation of cruelty or ruthlessness.