en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Relentlessly" vs. "mercilessly": two sides of pursuit

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 01/10/2024, 20:42
English.me team member
Relentlessly and mercilessly. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both adverbs convey a sense of persistence and a lack of stopping or giving up.

What is different?

Relentlessly implies persistence regardless of obstacles, while mercilessly adds a sense of brutality or lack of compassion.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for relentlessly) and mercilessly

Examples of usage

Relentlessly
  • She worked relentlessly to reach her goals.
  • The rain fell relentlessly for hours.
Mercilessly
  • The army attacked mercilessly, leaving no survivors.
  • He was criticized mercilessly by his opponents.

Recommended posts in Difference

"Beneath" vs. "underneath": what's the difference?

"Beneath" vs. "underneath": what's the difference?

"Underneath" often implies being directly under something and may suggest ... Learn more →

"Sticky" vs. "adhesive": exploring the bond between words

"Sticky" vs. "adhesive": exploring the bond between words

Sticky is often used to describe a temporary condition or ... Learn more →

"Prestige" vs. "reputation": nuances of perception

"Prestige" vs. "reputation": nuances of perception

Prestige often implies a higher level of respect or admiration ... Learn more →

"Affluent" vs. "wealthy": nuances of prosperity

"Affluent" vs. "wealthy": nuances of prosperity

The word "affluent" often implies having an abundance or excess ... Learn more →