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"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.

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