relentless
/rɪˈlentləs/ (bre, ipa) · /rɪˈlentləs/ (ame, ipa) · /ri-ˈlent-ləs/ (ame, mw)
relentless — adjective
- relentlesspositive
- more relentlesscomparative
- most relentlesssuperlative
1. Something unpleasant or difficult that continues with the same force and never b
Something unpleasant or difficult that continues with the same force and never becomes easier to deal with.
Asher could barely sleep because of the relentless heat during the summer nights.
relentless + noun (heat, pressure, noise)
The relentless rain caused floods that damaged many homes across the village.
Joon felt worn out by the relentless demands of his new job at the hospital.
Maja finally gave in under the relentless pressure from her classmates to join the team.
There was a relentless wind that blew sand into every corner of the tent.
- unceasing
more formal and literary; used for things that never stop
- persistent
softer tone; can be neutral or negative depending on context
- unrelenting
nearly identical meaning; slightly more formal
用法筆記
Commonly used with nouns describing unpleasant forces or conditions such as heat, pressure, noise, criticism, or pain.
常見錯誤
2. A person who refuses to change their goal or give up, even when facing strong op
A person who refuses to change their goal or give up, even when facing strong opposition or difficulty.
Heloísa was relentless in her efforts to improve the local library for the children.
was relentless in + noun / gerund
Gita's relentless drive to learn new languages helped her become a successful translator.
possessive + relentless + noun (drive, pursuit, focus)
The journalist remained relentless, asking tough questions until the politician gave a clear answer.
Linh's relentless pursuit of justice inspired many young lawyers in her community.
- determined
more common and neutral; can be positive or negative depending on context
- persistent
softer; suggests continuing effort without the 'unyielding' implication
- unyielding
emphasises the refusal to change one's position or demands
- half-hearted
showing little effort or enthusiasm
- yielding
willing to change one's mind or give in
用法筆記
Often followed by 'in + noun/gerund' (e.g. relentless in her work, relentless in their efforts). Can describe either an admirable quality (determination) or a negative trait (refusing to compromise).