1.
If you say that someone is ~, you mean that you disapprove of them because they are very harsh or cruel, and will do anything that is necessary to achieve what they want.
The President was ~ in dealing with any hint of internal political dissent.
ADJ: oft ADJ in n disapproval
~ly
The Party has ~ly crushed any sign of organised opposition.
ADV: ADV with v
~ness
...a powerful political figure with a reputation for ~ness.
N-UNCOUNT
2.
A ~ action or activity is done forcefully and thoroughly, without much concern for its effects on other people.
Her lawyers have been ~ in thrashing out a divorce settlement...
ADJ: oft ADJ in n
~ly
...a ~ly efficient woman.
ADV
~ness
...a woman with a brain and business acumen and a certain healthy ~ness.
N-UNCOUNT