French word

implacable

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛ̃plakabl/

Meaning

  • adjectiveunforgiving

Example

Le juge est implacable.

The judge is unforgiving.

Illustration for implacable (unforgiving)

More examples

Mon ancien patron était implacable sur les délais.

My former boss was ruthless about deadlines.

Core concept

A will that stays hard and unmoved when pressure or pleas seek mercy.

Common phrases

  • patron implacable

    ruthless boss

  • adversaire implacable

    relentless opponent

Similar words

inflexible: Unwilling to change an opinion or policy once established.
ferme: Firmly resolved and clear in attitude or decisions.
sévère: Strict in standards or judgment, with little leniency.

Definition in French

Qui refuse catégoriquement de céder ou de se laisser apaiser; sans pitié ni concession.

Word origin

French implacable comes from Latin implacabilis, formed with in- meaning not and placabilis meaning capable of being appeased, from placare, to calm.

Usage tips

  • Implacable is a strong, formal word in French and can sound excessive in casual speech about an ordinary disagreement.

Other meanings

  • mercilessadjective
  • relentlessadjective

Opposites

  • indulgentlenientadjective
  • miséricordieuxmercifuladjective

Word lists with this word