unsparing

Unsparing is an adjective that describes something that shows little or no mercy, leniency, or restraint. It can denote harsh, severe, or relentless treatment, judgment, or portrayal. In common usage, unsparing is often associated with criticism, descriptions of events, or accounts that spare none of the unpleasant details. Depending on context, it can imply cruelty or, more neutrally, blunt thoroughness.

Etymology and scope: The term is formed from the prefix un- and sparing, with sparing meaning merciful or lenient. The combination conveys a lack of mercy or restraint. The word has appeared in English since at least the early modern period and is most common in literary, journalistic, and analytical prose.

Usage examples: In literature and film criticism, an unsparing appraisal conveys candor without softening judgments. In journalism, unsparing reportage emphasizes hard facts and unembellished accounts of events. In historical writing, an unsparing account may present evidence and consequences without euphemism; it may be criticized for harshness even as it aims for accuracy.

See also: merciless, relentless, severe, blunt, uncompromising, thorough.