Definition

Having a tendency to cause pain or suffering to others; being harsh or unkind.

Example

The crueler of the two brothers often bullied the younger one.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I can't believe how some people can be so crueler than others.

I know, right? It's hard to understand why anyone would want to hurt someone else.

Yeah, it makes me think about how we should be kinder to each other.

Absolutely! A little kindness goes a long way, especially in a world that can be so crueler.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Crueler is formed from "cruel" (from Old French *cruel*, meaning harsh or severe) and the comparative suffix "-er" (meaning more). The word "crueler" means one who is more harsh or severe than another.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'more harsh' ('cruel') — the '-er' indicates a comparison, so a crueler person is simply someone who is more cruel.

Visually Confused Words