Unhuman vs. Inhumane: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on October 3, 2023
Unhuman refers to something not resembling or characteristic of humans, while inhumane denotes cruelty or lack of compassion.
Difference Between Unhuman and Inhumane
The terms "unhuman" and "inhumane" might seem quite similar, but they convey different meanings and are used in different contexts. "Unhuman" describes something that is not human or does not possess human qualities. It can be used to describe entities, situations, or characteristics that diverge from what we typically associate with human nature or human form. On the contrary, "inhumane" doesn't question the human nature of something but criticizes its lack of compassion or cruelty.
Muazma Batool
Oct 03, 2023
Take, for example, a sci-fi story about aliens who look nothing like humans. These extraterrestrial beings could be described as "unhuman" because they lack human features or characteristics. Now, if these aliens, or even humans, treat others with extreme cruelty, the actions would be termed "inhumane". The term does not focus on the physical or inherent nature of the entity but rather on the actions or behaviors being displayed.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
It's essential to recognize that "unhuman" is a less commonly used term than "inhumane". The latter is often found in discussions about ethics, rights, and treatment, especially when pointing out actions that lack empathy or kindness. Meanwhile, "unhuman" might be more prevalent in literary contexts or genres like science fiction where non-human entities are discussed.
Muazma Batool
Oct 03, 2023
In essence, while "unhuman" evaluates the nature or essence of something in relation to human characteristics, "inhumane" is a moral or ethical judgment on actions or behaviors, deeming them lacking in compassion or cruel.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Unhuman vs. Inhumane Comparison Chart
Definition
Not resembling or characteristic of humans.
Cruel and lacking compassion.
Muazma Batool
Oct 03, 2023
Moral/Ethical Implication
Doesn't carry moral judgment
Carries a negative moral judgment
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Unhuman vs. Inhumane Definitions
◉Unhuman
Not resembling human characteristics.
The unhuman creature emerged from the shadows.
Lucas
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
Lacking compassion or empathy.
The inhumane treatment of prisoners was widely condemned.
Leo
Sep 16, 2023
◉Unhuman
Lacking human attributes or emotions.
His unhuman detachment from the situation was chilling.
Levi
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
Barbarous or without human decency.
The inhumane actions of the dictator shocked the world.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
◉Unhuman
Beyond the usual experience of humans.
The landscape seemed unhuman, almost alien in its formation.
Nolan
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
Without consideration for the well-being of others.
The inhumane conditions of the facility were exposed by the media.
Lucas
Sep 16, 2023
◉Unhuman
Not suitable or fit for humans.
The environment was unhuman and impossible to survive in.
Olivia
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
Cruelly indifferent to the suffering of others.
It's inhumane to ignore the plight of the homeless.
Henry
Sep 16, 2023
◉Unhuman
Deviating from human norms.
The sculpture had an unhuman quality, making it eerily captivating.
Muazma Batool
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
Not befitting human beings.
Such inhumane behavior should never be tolerated.
Leo
Sep 16, 2023
◉Inhumane
alternative form of inhuman: lacking pity or compassion for misery and suffering; cruel, unkind.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Inhumane
not humane; lacking and reflecting lack of pity, kindness, or compassion; as, humans are innately inhumane; this explains much of the misery and suffering in the world; biological weapons are considered too inhumane to be used.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Inhumane
lacking and reflecting lack of pity or compassion;
humans are innately inhumane; this explains much of the misery and suffering in the world
biological weapons are considered too inhumane to be used
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
Unhuman vs. Inhumane Frequently Asked Questions
In what contexts is unhuman most commonly used?
Unhuman is often used in sci-fi or literary contexts describing non-human entities.
Elijah
Oct 03, 2023
Does inhumane always denote something negative?
Yes, inhumane describes actions or behaviors that lack compassion or are cruel.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
How do unhuman and inhumane differ in meaning?
Unhuman relates to not resembling humans, while inhumane pertains to cruelty.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Can a human be described as unhuman?
If someone severely lacks typical human characteristics, they might be described as unhuman, but it's rare.
Muazma Batool
Oct 03, 2023
What’s the root word for inhumane?
The root word for inhumane is "humane", which means showing compassion.
William
Oct 03, 2023
Can an environment be termed inhumane?
Yes, if the environment is cruel or lacks conditions fit for human well-being, it can be termed inhumane.
Henry
Oct 03, 2023
Is unhuman always related to physical appearance?
Not always, unhuman can also relate to behavior or emotions that deviate from typical human norms.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Are there positive connotations to the term inhumane?
No, inhumane invariably carries negative implications regarding cruelty or lack of compassion.
Muazma Batool
Oct 03, 2023
Can an action be described as unhuman?
Typically, actions are described as inhumane, not unhuman, when they lack compassion.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Is unhuman a common term in daily language?
No, unhuman is less commonly used than inhumane in everyday language.
Muneeza Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
