Unhuman vs. Inhumane — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 17, 2024
Unhuman refers to something not characteristic of humans or not possessing human qualities, while inhumane describes cruel or merciless behavior that lacks compassion.
Difference Between Unhuman and Inhumane
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Unhuman describes something that does not exhibit human traits or qualities, often used to refer to non-human entities or behaviors that seem alien or robotic. This term can apply to anything that is literally not human, such as an animal, a machine, or even an alien life form. Inhumane, on the other hand, specifically refers to actions or behaviors that are cruel, merciless, or lacking compassion and kindness. It is used to describe treatment or conditions that are considered morally unacceptable and severely harsh.
Unhuman can be neutral or descriptive without a moral judgment, focusing on the absence of human characteristics. For example, a robot's movements might be described as unhuman. In contrast, inhumane carries a strong negative connotation, emphasizing cruelty and a breach of ethical standards. For example, inhumane treatment of prisoners highlights the brutality and moral failing of such actions.
While unhuman might describe something foreign to human nature, inhumane explicitly condemns behavior that goes against the principles of humanity and kindness. Understanding the distinction helps in accurately conveying the nature of behaviors or entities, whether they are simply different from humans or actively violating moral and ethical norms.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Not characteristic of humans; lacking human traits
Cruel, merciless behavior lacking compassion
Usage
Describes non-human entities or traits
Describes morally unacceptable cruel actions
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Connotation
Neutral or descriptive
Strongly negative
Example Contexts
Robots, aliens, mechanical behaviors
Cruel treatment, harsh conditions
Ethical Implication
Lacks moral judgment
Implies a moral failing
Compare with Definitions
Unhuman
Appearing alien or non-human.
The creature had an unhuman appearance.
Inhumane
Lacking compassion and kindness.
The inhumane treatment of animals at the facility was shocking.
Unhuman
Lacking human warmth or emotion.
His unhuman stare made everyone uncomfortable.
Inhumane
Morally unacceptable actions.
The inhumane working conditions were condemned by activists.
Unhuman
Not conforming to human nature.
The unhuman landscape was like something from another planet.
Inhumane
Brutal and harsh treatment.
The inhumane punishment was seen as a violation of human rights.
Unhuman
Not possessing human characteristics.
The robot's unhuman precision was impressive.
Inhumane
Causing unnecessary suffering or pain.
The prisoners were subjected to inhumane conditions.
Unhuman
Mechanically or artificially behaving.
The automated system responded in an unhuman manner.
Inhumane
Cruel and merciless behavior.
The dictator's inhumane policies led to widespread suffering.
Unhuman
Not resembling or having the qualities of a human being.
Inhumane
Lacking pity or compassion.
Unhuman
Not human; inhuman.
Inhumane
Alternative form of inhuman: lacking pity or compassion for misery and suffering; cruel, unkind.
Unhuman
Divested of human qualities or attributes
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.
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
Common Curiosities
What does inhumane mean?
Inhumane describes behavior that is cruel, merciless, and lacking compassion.
Is unhuman always negative?
No, unhuman is neutral and descriptive, lacking moral judgment.
Is inhumane always negative?
Yes, inhumane has a strong negative connotation, implying cruelty and moral failing.
What does unhuman mean?
Unhuman refers to something that does not have human characteristics or traits.
Can unhuman describe behavior?
Yes, it can describe behavior that is mechanical or devoid of human warmth and emotion.
Can inhumane describe entities?
No, inhumane is typically used to describe actions or behaviors, not entities.
Can a robot be described as unhuman?
Yes, a robot's lack of human traits and mechanical behavior can be described as unhuman.
Can unhuman describe appearance?
Yes, something that looks alien or not like a human can be described as unhuman.
What is an example of inhumane treatment?
Torturing prisoners is an example of inhumane treatment.
Can a person be described as inhumane?
Yes, if a person's actions are cruel and lack compassion, they can be described as inhumane.
What is an example of unhuman behavior?
A machine's precise, emotionless actions can be considered unhuman.
Does unhuman imply ethical judgment?
No, unhuman does not carry ethical judgment; it is descriptive.
Does inhumane imply ethical judgment?
Yes, inhumane implies a strong ethical judgment against the behavior.
What is the key difference between unhuman and inhumane?
Unhuman refers to the absence of human traits and is neutral, while inhumane describes cruel behavior and carries a strong negative connotation.
Can inhumane describe policies?
Yes, policies that cause suffering and lack compassion can be described as inhumane.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
