cutthroat
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˈkʌtθroʊt//
KK: /ˈkʌtˌθroʊt/
adjective
Definition
Describing someone or something that is very cruel, ruthless, or merciless, especially in competition or business.
Example
The cutthroat competition in the market forced many small businesses to close.
Conversation
Have you noticed how cutthroat the competition is in our class lately?
Absolutely! Everyone seems to be trying to outdo each other.
I guess we need to step up our game to keep up with this cutthroat environment.
For sure! It's all about who can get the best grades now.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ruthless
merciless
savage
Antonyms
gentle
lenient
compassionate
noun
Definition
A person who is ruthless and willing to do anything to succeed, often at the expense of others.
Example
In the business world, being a cutthroat can sometimes lead to success, but it can also damage relationships.
Conversation
Have you heard about that new guy at work?
Yeah, I heard he's a real cutthroat when it comes to competition.
It's crazy how some people will do anything to get ahead.
Root Explanation
Cutthroat → It is formed from "cut" (from Old English "cuttan", meaning to sever or divide) and "throat" (from Old English "þrote", meaning the front part of the neck). The term "cutthroat" originally referred to someone who would cut the throat of another, often in a violent or treacherous manner, and has come to describe ruthless or unscrupulous behavior.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who 'severs' ('cut') the 'neck' ('throat') of another, which helps you remember that 'cutthroat' describes someone who is ruthless or treacherous.
Visually Confused Words
throat