Basic Details
Word: Inhumanity
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The quality of being cruel and lacking kindness towards others.
Synonyms: Brutality, cruelty, savagery
Antonyms: Humanity, kindness, compassion
Idioms and Phrases
- Inhumanity knows no bounds: This phrase means that cruelty and brutality can exceed any limits. Example: "The reports from the conflict zone show that inhumanity knows no bounds, with terrible acts being committed against innocent people."
- A heart of stone: This phrase describes someone who is unfeeling or cruel. Example: "Seeing the suffering of others, he realised he could no longer have a heart of stone."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The inhumanity displayed during the war left deep scars on the lives of many civilians.
Example 2: Acts of inhumanity can sometimes make us question the nature of humanity itself.
Example 3: She dedicated her life to fighting against the inhumanity of oppression and injustice in society.
Fun Fact
The word "inhumanity" comes from the Latin word "inhumanitas," which means "cruelty" or "uncivility", combining 'in-' (not) with 'humanus,' meaning human. It reflects a contrast to the kindness we expect from fellow humans.
Famous Quote
"The inhumanity of man towards man is a shocking thing, and it needs to be communicated steadily." - W. Somerset Maugham
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "inhumanity" mean?
a) Kindness towards animals
b) The quality of being cruel
c) The ability to forgive
d) A type of humanity
Answer: b) The quality of being cruel
2. Which of these is a synonym of "inhumanity"?
a) Gentleness
b) Brutality
c) Love
d) Warmth
Answer: b) Brutality
3. Which word is an antonym of "inhumanity"?
a) Cruelty
b) Compassion
c) Savagery
d) Barbarity
Answer: b) Compassion
4. Which sentence uses "inhumanity" correctly?
a) The inhumanity shown by the volunteers inspired many.
b) Inhumanity can often lead to positive outcomes.
c) The film depicted scenes of inhumanity in their harsh treatment of the characters.
d) Inhumanity is always welcomed in society.
Answer: c) The film depicted scenes of inhumanity in their harsh treatment of the characters.
5. Which idiom refers to excessive cruelty?
a) Inhumanity knows no bounds
b) A heart of stone
c) A walk in the park
d) Hit the nail on the head
Answer: a) Inhumanity knows no bounds
