What do you call a person that goes to extreme ends to accomplish a goal?
I've been trying to find a single word that describes a person that will go to extreme ends to achieve a goal.
For example, a person that would harm friends or leave behind a path of destruction to get what they want.
This question about a person that always goes the extra mile was the closest I could find, but didn't answer my question because of its more positive tone.
single-word-requests
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
|
show 5 more comments
I've been trying to find a single word that describes a person that will go to extreme ends to achieve a goal.
For example, a person that would harm friends or leave behind a path of destruction to get what they want.
This question about a person that always goes the extra mile was the closest I could find, but didn't answer my question because of its more positive tone.
single-word-requests
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
6
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
4
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
4
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
1
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36
|
show 5 more comments
I've been trying to find a single word that describes a person that will go to extreme ends to achieve a goal.
For example, a person that would harm friends or leave behind a path of destruction to get what they want.
This question about a person that always goes the extra mile was the closest I could find, but didn't answer my question because of its more positive tone.
single-word-requests
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
I've been trying to find a single word that describes a person that will go to extreme ends to achieve a goal.
For example, a person that would harm friends or leave behind a path of destruction to get what they want.
This question about a person that always goes the extra mile was the closest I could find, but didn't answer my question because of its more positive tone.
single-word-requests
single-word-requests
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
edited Apr 13 '17 at 12:38
Community♦
1
1
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
asked Jul 15 '15 at 19:07
D-zapD-zap
265148
265148
6
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
4
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
4
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
1
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36
|
show 5 more comments
6
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
4
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
4
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
1
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36
6
6
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
1
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
4
4
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
4
4
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
1
1
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36
|
show 5 more comments
20 Answers
20
active
oldest
votes
You have pretty accurately described someone with antisocial personality disorder. Popular terms for this are psychopath and sociopath.
Both types of personality have a pervasive pattern of disregard for the safety and rights of others. Deceit and manipulation are central features to both types of personality. And contrary to popular belief, a psychopath or sociopath is not necessarily violent.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/02/12/differences-between-a-psychopath-vs-sociopath/
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
add a comment |
Ruthless or Relentless
If someone is ruthless to accomplish a goal then that means they will do anything it takes to succeed. The are no boundaries for someone acting ruthless, which can often involve abuse.
A relentless person never stops trying to accomplish the goal, sometimes to the point of being annoying. An example would be a relentless telemarketer calling you everyday.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
add a comment |
Hell-bent
adjective
determined to achieve something at all costs.
This carries a negative connotation; usually used with "on (noun)" as in: "He's hell-bent on destruction," also note that it carries a negative connotation for the end goal as well.
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
add a comment |
If you are looking for negative connotations:
Machiavellian
A person who schemes in a Machiavellian way. (ODO)
It would describe someone selfish and unscrupulous in achieving their goals:
A 1992 review described Machiavellian motivation as related to cold selfishness and pure instrumentality, and those high on the trait were assumed to pursue their motives (e.g. sex, achievement, sociality) in duplicitous ways. [...] High Machs admitted to focusing on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost. (Wikipedia; emphasis mine)
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
add a comment |
How about fanatic?
Merriam Webster's 3rd International says he is:
a person exhibiting excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical
devotion ... urging his beliefs zealously and with unreasonable and
uncompromising insistence
advantages:
1) a noun, a name for a person, as requested;
2) highly negative;
3) prone to actually do bad things ('unreasonable' and 'uncompromising').
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
add a comment |
Unscrupulous is an adjective often used to refer to someone who is prepared to to anything in order to get what they want:
without scruples or principles;
- "unscrupulous politicos who would be happy to sell...their country in order to gain power"
The Free Dictionary
add a comment |
A zealot ("person who has very strong feelings about something ... and who wants other people to have those feelings", Merriam-Webster) could have a positive or a negative connotation, so it may not fit your need, given your examples of harm, destruction, and not wanting a positively-toned answer.
Also detracting from my own answer is the very existence of the term "overzealous"; my only (weak) counter-argument would be that overly zealous people are clearly still full of zeal.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
add a comment |
I found this expression:
to sell one's own grandmother
I am not a native english speaker though.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
add a comment |
I'm surprised nobody mentioned extremist.
It's commonly used for terrorists that act for religious reasons these days, so you may consider using a different word depending on the context and target audience's level of understanding.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
add a comment |
Combining the figurative meanings for steamroller given by Collins
steamroller ...
2 a. an overpowering force or a person with such force that overcomes
all opposition
and AHDEL
steamroller n.
...
- A ruthless or irresistible force or power.
obviously licenses the term, though I'd say it's more common as a verb in this sense. The verbs 'bulldoze' and 'railroad' are often used also.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
add a comment |
Consider monomania
an extremely strong interest in one thing that influences the whole of someone’s life in a negative way
Macmillan
The concept has received much attention in literature. For example, this passage from Melville's Moby Dick, describing the captain who carried his ship and men to their doom in furtherance of his obsession:
But, as in his narrow-flowing monomania, not one jot of Ahab's broad madness had been left behind; so in that broad madness, not one jot of his great natural intellect had perished. ... so that far from having lost his strength, Ahab, to that one end, did now possess a thousand-fold more potency than ever he had sanely brought to bear upon any reasonable object.
Wikipedia
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
add a comment |
Cutthroat
Wiktionary
n. An unscrupulous, ruthless or unethical person.
adj. Ruthlessly competitive, dog-eat-dog
Blue Falcon
Wiktionary
(US, military) A bowlderizing or perhaps humorous euphemism for the derogatory term buddy fucker, a supposed comrade whose actions harm his friends, often for his own benefit.
Quote: To them, he's a Blue Falcon, a derogatory euphemism for "buddy-fucker." Blue Falcons are great soldiers when the commander's watching. But they'll screw you in a heartbeat when nobody else is around.
Ambitious
Wiktionary
adj. Possessing, or controlled by ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
add a comment |
Obsessive
Wiktionary meaning 2:
Having one thought or pursuing one activity to the absolute or nearly absolute exclusion of all others.
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
add a comment |
The most destructive I can think of would be a psychopath.
A person with an antisocial personality disorder, manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.
Psychopaths tend to lack normal human emotions such as guilt. They are also often highly intelligent and skilled at manipulating others.
Also, psychopaths seem to appear normal. You would probably never guess there was something wrong with them.
Reference:
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Psychopath
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
add a comment |
The person is desperate.
Of persons: Driven to desperation, reckless or infuriated from despair. Hence, Having the character of one in this condition; extremely reckless or violent, ready to run any risk or go any length. OED
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
add a comment |
I'd say draconian.
The word generally implies that harm or suffering is coming from the action, or that the solution which has been chosen is overly rough, and could be more gentle. Basically meaning it's overly harsh or proverbially/literall martial.
Alternatives might include crude or heavy-handed.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
add a comment |
Sarcastically, a real go-getter
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
add a comment |
I would go for the word 'opportunist'
https://www.google.com.lb/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHWA_enLB632LB632&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=opportunist
opportunist
ɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/Submit
noun
1. a person who takes advantage of opportunities as and when they arise, regardless of planning or principle.
"most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists"
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
add a comment |
If the extremes include illegal acts, scofflaw may cover it.
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
add a comment |
Zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their goals. Google
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
add a comment |
protected by tchrist♦ Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
Thank you for your interest in this question.
Because it has attracted low-quality or spam answers that had to be removed, posting an answer now requires 10 reputation on this site (the association bonus does not count).
Would you like to answer one of these unanswered questions instead?
20 Answers
20
active
oldest
votes
20 Answers
20
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
You have pretty accurately described someone with antisocial personality disorder. Popular terms for this are psychopath and sociopath.
Both types of personality have a pervasive pattern of disregard for the safety and rights of others. Deceit and manipulation are central features to both types of personality. And contrary to popular belief, a psychopath or sociopath is not necessarily violent.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/02/12/differences-between-a-psychopath-vs-sociopath/
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
add a comment |
You have pretty accurately described someone with antisocial personality disorder. Popular terms for this are psychopath and sociopath.
Both types of personality have a pervasive pattern of disregard for the safety and rights of others. Deceit and manipulation are central features to both types of personality. And contrary to popular belief, a psychopath or sociopath is not necessarily violent.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/02/12/differences-between-a-psychopath-vs-sociopath/
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
add a comment |
You have pretty accurately described someone with antisocial personality disorder. Popular terms for this are psychopath and sociopath.
Both types of personality have a pervasive pattern of disregard for the safety and rights of others. Deceit and manipulation are central features to both types of personality. And contrary to popular belief, a psychopath or sociopath is not necessarily violent.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/02/12/differences-between-a-psychopath-vs-sociopath/
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
You have pretty accurately described someone with antisocial personality disorder. Popular terms for this are psychopath and sociopath.
Both types of personality have a pervasive pattern of disregard for the safety and rights of others. Deceit and manipulation are central features to both types of personality. And contrary to popular belief, a psychopath or sociopath is not necessarily violent.
http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2015/02/12/differences-between-a-psychopath-vs-sociopath/
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
chasly from UKchasly from UK
24.1k13274
24.1k13274
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
add a comment |
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
2
2
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
While some other answers are better in general and may be better fitting for others, this answer fit best for the context I needed it in.
– D-zap
Jul 17 '15 at 7:21
add a comment |
Ruthless or Relentless
If someone is ruthless to accomplish a goal then that means they will do anything it takes to succeed. The are no boundaries for someone acting ruthless, which can often involve abuse.
A relentless person never stops trying to accomplish the goal, sometimes to the point of being annoying. An example would be a relentless telemarketer calling you everyday.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
add a comment |
Ruthless or Relentless
If someone is ruthless to accomplish a goal then that means they will do anything it takes to succeed. The are no boundaries for someone acting ruthless, which can often involve abuse.
A relentless person never stops trying to accomplish the goal, sometimes to the point of being annoying. An example would be a relentless telemarketer calling you everyday.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
add a comment |
Ruthless or Relentless
If someone is ruthless to accomplish a goal then that means they will do anything it takes to succeed. The are no boundaries for someone acting ruthless, which can often involve abuse.
A relentless person never stops trying to accomplish the goal, sometimes to the point of being annoying. An example would be a relentless telemarketer calling you everyday.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
Ruthless or Relentless
If someone is ruthless to accomplish a goal then that means they will do anything it takes to succeed. The are no boundaries for someone acting ruthless, which can often involve abuse.
A relentless person never stops trying to accomplish the goal, sometimes to the point of being annoying. An example would be a relentless telemarketer calling you everyday.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
edited Mar 23 at 14:47
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:05
dockeryZdockeryZ
1,8431814
1,8431814
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
add a comment |
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
2
2
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
definition from Google: having or showing no pity or compassion for others. This fits the example in the OP but doesn't seem to capture the "idea" that he was going for.
– C dawg
Jul 16 '15 at 20:32
3
3
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
@Cdawg "Ruthless" does not carry the same connotation as "cruel". I can't think of a case where someone characterizes a person as ruthless without indicating that they are in pursuit of some goal. I can think of no cases where we would characterize a person as both ruthless and lazy, but plenty where one is both lazy and also cruel or otherwise vile.
– zxq9
Jul 18 '15 at 5:56
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
Edited my post to include relentless as well.
– dockeryZ
Mar 23 at 14:47
add a comment |
Hell-bent
adjective
determined to achieve something at all costs.
This carries a negative connotation; usually used with "on (noun)" as in: "He's hell-bent on destruction," also note that it carries a negative connotation for the end goal as well.
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
add a comment |
Hell-bent
adjective
determined to achieve something at all costs.
This carries a negative connotation; usually used with "on (noun)" as in: "He's hell-bent on destruction," also note that it carries a negative connotation for the end goal as well.
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
add a comment |
Hell-bent
adjective
determined to achieve something at all costs.
This carries a negative connotation; usually used with "on (noun)" as in: "He's hell-bent on destruction," also note that it carries a negative connotation for the end goal as well.
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
Hell-bent
adjective
determined to achieve something at all costs.
This carries a negative connotation; usually used with "on (noun)" as in: "He's hell-bent on destruction," also note that it carries a negative connotation for the end goal as well.
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:37
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
answered Jul 16 '15 at 13:53
dramzydramzy
38828
38828
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
add a comment |
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
@wavemode I agree.
– vickyace
May 5 '16 at 21:42
add a comment |
If you are looking for negative connotations:
Machiavellian
A person who schemes in a Machiavellian way. (ODO)
It would describe someone selfish and unscrupulous in achieving their goals:
A 1992 review described Machiavellian motivation as related to cold selfishness and pure instrumentality, and those high on the trait were assumed to pursue their motives (e.g. sex, achievement, sociality) in duplicitous ways. [...] High Machs admitted to focusing on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost. (Wikipedia; emphasis mine)
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
add a comment |
If you are looking for negative connotations:
Machiavellian
A person who schemes in a Machiavellian way. (ODO)
It would describe someone selfish and unscrupulous in achieving their goals:
A 1992 review described Machiavellian motivation as related to cold selfishness and pure instrumentality, and those high on the trait were assumed to pursue their motives (e.g. sex, achievement, sociality) in duplicitous ways. [...] High Machs admitted to focusing on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost. (Wikipedia; emphasis mine)
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
add a comment |
If you are looking for negative connotations:
Machiavellian
A person who schemes in a Machiavellian way. (ODO)
It would describe someone selfish and unscrupulous in achieving their goals:
A 1992 review described Machiavellian motivation as related to cold selfishness and pure instrumentality, and those high on the trait were assumed to pursue their motives (e.g. sex, achievement, sociality) in duplicitous ways. [...] High Machs admitted to focusing on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost. (Wikipedia; emphasis mine)
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
If you are looking for negative connotations:
Machiavellian
A person who schemes in a Machiavellian way. (ODO)
It would describe someone selfish and unscrupulous in achieving their goals:
A 1992 review described Machiavellian motivation as related to cold selfishness and pure instrumentality, and those high on the trait were assumed to pursue their motives (e.g. sex, achievement, sociality) in duplicitous ways. [...] High Machs admitted to focusing on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost. (Wikipedia; emphasis mine)
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:02
LuckyLucky
2,127822
2,127822
add a comment |
add a comment |
How about fanatic?
Merriam Webster's 3rd International says he is:
a person exhibiting excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical
devotion ... urging his beliefs zealously and with unreasonable and
uncompromising insistence
advantages:
1) a noun, a name for a person, as requested;
2) highly negative;
3) prone to actually do bad things ('unreasonable' and 'uncompromising').
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
add a comment |
How about fanatic?
Merriam Webster's 3rd International says he is:
a person exhibiting excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical
devotion ... urging his beliefs zealously and with unreasonable and
uncompromising insistence
advantages:
1) a noun, a name for a person, as requested;
2) highly negative;
3) prone to actually do bad things ('unreasonable' and 'uncompromising').
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
add a comment |
How about fanatic?
Merriam Webster's 3rd International says he is:
a person exhibiting excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical
devotion ... urging his beliefs zealously and with unreasonable and
uncompromising insistence
advantages:
1) a noun, a name for a person, as requested;
2) highly negative;
3) prone to actually do bad things ('unreasonable' and 'uncompromising').
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
How about fanatic?
Merriam Webster's 3rd International says he is:
a person exhibiting excessive enthusiasm and intense uncritical
devotion ... urging his beliefs zealously and with unreasonable and
uncompromising insistence
advantages:
1) a noun, a name for a person, as requested;
2) highly negative;
3) prone to actually do bad things ('unreasonable' and 'uncompromising').
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:25
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
rabbitrabbit
51526
51526
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
add a comment |
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Are the "end is near" people on street corners not fanatics that don't work towards their claim?
– Cees Timmerman
Jul 16 '15 at 7:23
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
Much of this is personal habit (or views), but for me, whether I call them fanatics depends on what they are doing. Are they flagellating themselves? Do they walked around naked for 3 years like Isaiah? Yes, fanatics. Otherwise, in most cases, no. Of course we also have 'golfing fanatics', but this is fanatic following the path of 'enthusiast', which had a similar origin and meaning to fanatic, but is now neutral.
– rabbit
Jul 16 '15 at 7:42
add a comment |
Unscrupulous is an adjective often used to refer to someone who is prepared to to anything in order to get what they want:
without scruples or principles;
- "unscrupulous politicos who would be happy to sell...their country in order to gain power"
The Free Dictionary
add a comment |
Unscrupulous is an adjective often used to refer to someone who is prepared to to anything in order to get what they want:
without scruples or principles;
- "unscrupulous politicos who would be happy to sell...their country in order to gain power"
The Free Dictionary
add a comment |
Unscrupulous is an adjective often used to refer to someone who is prepared to to anything in order to get what they want:
without scruples or principles;
- "unscrupulous politicos who would be happy to sell...their country in order to gain power"
The Free Dictionary
Unscrupulous is an adjective often used to refer to someone who is prepared to to anything in order to get what they want:
without scruples or principles;
- "unscrupulous politicos who would be happy to sell...their country in order to gain power"
The Free Dictionary
answered Jul 16 '15 at 1:01
user66974
add a comment |
add a comment |
A zealot ("person who has very strong feelings about something ... and who wants other people to have those feelings", Merriam-Webster) could have a positive or a negative connotation, so it may not fit your need, given your examples of harm, destruction, and not wanting a positively-toned answer.
Also detracting from my own answer is the very existence of the term "overzealous"; my only (weak) counter-argument would be that overly zealous people are clearly still full of zeal.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
add a comment |
A zealot ("person who has very strong feelings about something ... and who wants other people to have those feelings", Merriam-Webster) could have a positive or a negative connotation, so it may not fit your need, given your examples of harm, destruction, and not wanting a positively-toned answer.
Also detracting from my own answer is the very existence of the term "overzealous"; my only (weak) counter-argument would be that overly zealous people are clearly still full of zeal.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
add a comment |
A zealot ("person who has very strong feelings about something ... and who wants other people to have those feelings", Merriam-Webster) could have a positive or a negative connotation, so it may not fit your need, given your examples of harm, destruction, and not wanting a positively-toned answer.
Also detracting from my own answer is the very existence of the term "overzealous"; my only (weak) counter-argument would be that overly zealous people are clearly still full of zeal.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
A zealot ("person who has very strong feelings about something ... and who wants other people to have those feelings", Merriam-Webster) could have a positive or a negative connotation, so it may not fit your need, given your examples of harm, destruction, and not wanting a positively-toned answer.
Also detracting from my own answer is the very existence of the term "overzealous"; my only (weak) counter-argument would be that overly zealous people are clearly still full of zeal.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
edited Jul 16 '15 at 3:33
Lucky
2,127822
2,127822
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:17
Jeff SchallerJeff Schaller
27029
27029
add a comment |
add a comment |
I found this expression:
to sell one's own grandmother
I am not a native english speaker though.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
add a comment |
I found this expression:
to sell one's own grandmother
I am not a native english speaker though.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
add a comment |
I found this expression:
to sell one's own grandmother
I am not a native english speaker though.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
I found this expression:
to sell one's own grandmother
I am not a native english speaker though.
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
edited Jul 16 '15 at 20:28
Hellion
54.7k14109198
54.7k14109198
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
answered Jul 16 '15 at 11:29
Marcel BurkhardMarcel Burkhard
1713
1713
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
add a comment |
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
This isn't a bad answer, but it would usually be said somewhat more lightly than the context the OP presents. It's usually a hyperbole and carries more of a connotation of selfishness or greed and possibly swindling, often hidden behind a mask of cheeriness, rather than behavior that's blatantly destructive to relationships.
– jpmc26
Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
add a comment |
I'm surprised nobody mentioned extremist.
It's commonly used for terrorists that act for religious reasons these days, so you may consider using a different word depending on the context and target audience's level of understanding.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
add a comment |
I'm surprised nobody mentioned extremist.
It's commonly used for terrorists that act for religious reasons these days, so you may consider using a different word depending on the context and target audience's level of understanding.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
add a comment |
I'm surprised nobody mentioned extremist.
It's commonly used for terrorists that act for religious reasons these days, so you may consider using a different word depending on the context and target audience's level of understanding.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
I'm surprised nobody mentioned extremist.
It's commonly used for terrorists that act for religious reasons these days, so you may consider using a different word depending on the context and target audience's level of understanding.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
answered Jul 15 '15 at 20:37
user1306322user1306322
6573925
6573925
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
add a comment |
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
I thought about it but the reason I didn't is because it's somewhat unspecific. You can be considered an extremist for simply having extreme beliefs, even without trying to accomplish anything, suggesting disagreement is bad. Using it this way somewhat also implies holding a compromised view is necessarily good, which it isn't.
– Tonepoet
Jul 15 '15 at 21:38
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
Yeah, 'extremist', to my ear, describes someone's beliefs, whereas the kind of person described by the OP may not have any.
– dramzy
Jul 16 '15 at 14:06
add a comment |
Combining the figurative meanings for steamroller given by Collins
steamroller ...
2 a. an overpowering force or a person with such force that overcomes
all opposition
and AHDEL
steamroller n.
...
- A ruthless or irresistible force or power.
obviously licenses the term, though I'd say it's more common as a verb in this sense. The verbs 'bulldoze' and 'railroad' are often used also.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
add a comment |
Combining the figurative meanings for steamroller given by Collins
steamroller ...
2 a. an overpowering force or a person with such force that overcomes
all opposition
and AHDEL
steamroller n.
...
- A ruthless or irresistible force or power.
obviously licenses the term, though I'd say it's more common as a verb in this sense. The verbs 'bulldoze' and 'railroad' are often used also.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
add a comment |
Combining the figurative meanings for steamroller given by Collins
steamroller ...
2 a. an overpowering force or a person with such force that overcomes
all opposition
and AHDEL
steamroller n.
...
- A ruthless or irresistible force or power.
obviously licenses the term, though I'd say it's more common as a verb in this sense. The verbs 'bulldoze' and 'railroad' are often used also.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
Combining the figurative meanings for steamroller given by Collins
steamroller ...
2 a. an overpowering force or a person with such force that overcomes
all opposition
and AHDEL
steamroller n.
...
- A ruthless or irresistible force or power.
obviously licenses the term, though I'd say it's more common as a verb in this sense. The verbs 'bulldoze' and 'railroad' are often used also.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:22
Edwin AshworthEdwin Ashworth
49.2k1090156
49.2k1090156
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
add a comment |
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
1
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
Juggernaut should be similar, and perhaps stronger.
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
add a comment |
Consider monomania
an extremely strong interest in one thing that influences the whole of someone’s life in a negative way
Macmillan
The concept has received much attention in literature. For example, this passage from Melville's Moby Dick, describing the captain who carried his ship and men to their doom in furtherance of his obsession:
But, as in his narrow-flowing monomania, not one jot of Ahab's broad madness had been left behind; so in that broad madness, not one jot of his great natural intellect had perished. ... so that far from having lost his strength, Ahab, to that one end, did now possess a thousand-fold more potency than ever he had sanely brought to bear upon any reasonable object.
Wikipedia
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
add a comment |
Consider monomania
an extremely strong interest in one thing that influences the whole of someone’s life in a negative way
Macmillan
The concept has received much attention in literature. For example, this passage from Melville's Moby Dick, describing the captain who carried his ship and men to their doom in furtherance of his obsession:
But, as in his narrow-flowing monomania, not one jot of Ahab's broad madness had been left behind; so in that broad madness, not one jot of his great natural intellect had perished. ... so that far from having lost his strength, Ahab, to that one end, did now possess a thousand-fold more potency than ever he had sanely brought to bear upon any reasonable object.
Wikipedia
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
add a comment |
Consider monomania
an extremely strong interest in one thing that influences the whole of someone’s life in a negative way
Macmillan
The concept has received much attention in literature. For example, this passage from Melville's Moby Dick, describing the captain who carried his ship and men to their doom in furtherance of his obsession:
But, as in his narrow-flowing monomania, not one jot of Ahab's broad madness had been left behind; so in that broad madness, not one jot of his great natural intellect had perished. ... so that far from having lost his strength, Ahab, to that one end, did now possess a thousand-fold more potency than ever he had sanely brought to bear upon any reasonable object.
Wikipedia
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
Consider monomania
an extremely strong interest in one thing that influences the whole of someone’s life in a negative way
Macmillan
The concept has received much attention in literature. For example, this passage from Melville's Moby Dick, describing the captain who carried his ship and men to their doom in furtherance of his obsession:
But, as in his narrow-flowing monomania, not one jot of Ahab's broad madness had been left behind; so in that broad madness, not one jot of his great natural intellect had perished. ... so that far from having lost his strength, Ahab, to that one end, did now possess a thousand-fold more potency than ever he had sanely brought to bear upon any reasonable object.
Wikipedia
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:20
bibbib
68.8k8101213
68.8k8101213
add a comment |
add a comment |
Cutthroat
Wiktionary
n. An unscrupulous, ruthless or unethical person.
adj. Ruthlessly competitive, dog-eat-dog
Blue Falcon
Wiktionary
(US, military) A bowlderizing or perhaps humorous euphemism for the derogatory term buddy fucker, a supposed comrade whose actions harm his friends, often for his own benefit.
Quote: To them, he's a Blue Falcon, a derogatory euphemism for "buddy-fucker." Blue Falcons are great soldiers when the commander's watching. But they'll screw you in a heartbeat when nobody else is around.
Ambitious
Wiktionary
adj. Possessing, or controlled by ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
add a comment |
Cutthroat
Wiktionary
n. An unscrupulous, ruthless or unethical person.
adj. Ruthlessly competitive, dog-eat-dog
Blue Falcon
Wiktionary
(US, military) A bowlderizing or perhaps humorous euphemism for the derogatory term buddy fucker, a supposed comrade whose actions harm his friends, often for his own benefit.
Quote: To them, he's a Blue Falcon, a derogatory euphemism for "buddy-fucker." Blue Falcons are great soldiers when the commander's watching. But they'll screw you in a heartbeat when nobody else is around.
Ambitious
Wiktionary
adj. Possessing, or controlled by ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
add a comment |
Cutthroat
Wiktionary
n. An unscrupulous, ruthless or unethical person.
adj. Ruthlessly competitive, dog-eat-dog
Blue Falcon
Wiktionary
(US, military) A bowlderizing or perhaps humorous euphemism for the derogatory term buddy fucker, a supposed comrade whose actions harm his friends, often for his own benefit.
Quote: To them, he's a Blue Falcon, a derogatory euphemism for "buddy-fucker." Blue Falcons are great soldiers when the commander's watching. But they'll screw you in a heartbeat when nobody else is around.
Ambitious
Wiktionary
adj. Possessing, or controlled by ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
Cutthroat
Wiktionary
n. An unscrupulous, ruthless or unethical person.
adj. Ruthlessly competitive, dog-eat-dog
Blue Falcon
Wiktionary
(US, military) A bowlderizing or perhaps humorous euphemism for the derogatory term buddy fucker, a supposed comrade whose actions harm his friends, often for his own benefit.
Quote: To them, he's a Blue Falcon, a derogatory euphemism for "buddy-fucker." Blue Falcons are great soldiers when the commander's watching. But they'll screw you in a heartbeat when nobody else is around.
Ambitious
Wiktionary
adj. Possessing, or controlled by ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
edited Jul 18 '15 at 6:24
Mari-Lou A
62.4k57223462
62.4k57223462
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:27
RG13RG13
1733
1733
add a comment |
add a comment |
Obsessive
Wiktionary meaning 2:
Having one thought or pursuing one activity to the absolute or nearly absolute exclusion of all others.
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
add a comment |
Obsessive
Wiktionary meaning 2:
Having one thought or pursuing one activity to the absolute or nearly absolute exclusion of all others.
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
add a comment |
Obsessive
Wiktionary meaning 2:
Having one thought or pursuing one activity to the absolute or nearly absolute exclusion of all others.
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
Obsessive
Wiktionary meaning 2:
Having one thought or pursuing one activity to the absolute or nearly absolute exclusion of all others.
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
edited Jul 20 '15 at 8:15
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.5k1489153
25.5k1489153
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
answered Jul 17 '15 at 7:10
Luc ClaeysLuc Claeys
112
112
add a comment |
add a comment |
The most destructive I can think of would be a psychopath.
A person with an antisocial personality disorder, manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.
Psychopaths tend to lack normal human emotions such as guilt. They are also often highly intelligent and skilled at manipulating others.
Also, psychopaths seem to appear normal. You would probably never guess there was something wrong with them.
Reference:
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Psychopath
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
add a comment |
The most destructive I can think of would be a psychopath.
A person with an antisocial personality disorder, manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.
Psychopaths tend to lack normal human emotions such as guilt. They are also often highly intelligent and skilled at manipulating others.
Also, psychopaths seem to appear normal. You would probably never guess there was something wrong with them.
Reference:
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Psychopath
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
add a comment |
The most destructive I can think of would be a psychopath.
A person with an antisocial personality disorder, manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.
Psychopaths tend to lack normal human emotions such as guilt. They are also often highly intelligent and skilled at manipulating others.
Also, psychopaths seem to appear normal. You would probably never guess there was something wrong with them.
Reference:
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Psychopath
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
The most destructive I can think of would be a psychopath.
A person with an antisocial personality disorder, manifested in aggressive, perverted, criminal, or amoral behavior without empathy or remorse.
Psychopaths tend to lack normal human emotions such as guilt. They are also often highly intelligent and skilled at manipulating others.
Also, psychopaths seem to appear normal. You would probably never guess there was something wrong with them.
Reference:
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Psychopath
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:30
BookeaterBookeater
7,00721635
7,00721635
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
add a comment |
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
Heh. Popular question, this.
– Bookeater
Jul 15 '15 at 19:31
add a comment |
The person is desperate.
Of persons: Driven to desperation, reckless or infuriated from despair. Hence, Having the character of one in this condition; extremely reckless or violent, ready to run any risk or go any length. OED
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
add a comment |
The person is desperate.
Of persons: Driven to desperation, reckless or infuriated from despair. Hence, Having the character of one in this condition; extremely reckless or violent, ready to run any risk or go any length. OED
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
add a comment |
The person is desperate.
Of persons: Driven to desperation, reckless or infuriated from despair. Hence, Having the character of one in this condition; extremely reckless or violent, ready to run any risk or go any length. OED
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
The person is desperate.
Of persons: Driven to desperation, reckless or infuriated from despair. Hence, Having the character of one in this condition; extremely reckless or violent, ready to run any risk or go any length. OED
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
answered Jul 15 '15 at 19:38
ermanenermanen
45.6k25124234
45.6k25124234
add a comment |
add a comment |
I'd say draconian.
The word generally implies that harm or suffering is coming from the action, or that the solution which has been chosen is overly rough, and could be more gentle. Basically meaning it's overly harsh or proverbially/literall martial.
Alternatives might include crude or heavy-handed.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
add a comment |
I'd say draconian.
The word generally implies that harm or suffering is coming from the action, or that the solution which has been chosen is overly rough, and could be more gentle. Basically meaning it's overly harsh or proverbially/literall martial.
Alternatives might include crude or heavy-handed.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
add a comment |
I'd say draconian.
The word generally implies that harm or suffering is coming from the action, or that the solution which has been chosen is overly rough, and could be more gentle. Basically meaning it's overly harsh or proverbially/literall martial.
Alternatives might include crude or heavy-handed.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
I'd say draconian.
The word generally implies that harm or suffering is coming from the action, or that the solution which has been chosen is overly rough, and could be more gentle. Basically meaning it's overly harsh or proverbially/literall martial.
Alternatives might include crude or heavy-handed.
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
answered Jul 15 '15 at 21:49
SeldomNeedySeldomNeedy
52837
52837
add a comment |
add a comment |
Sarcastically, a real go-getter
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
add a comment |
Sarcastically, a real go-getter
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
add a comment |
Sarcastically, a real go-getter
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
Sarcastically, a real go-getter
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
answered Jul 17 '15 at 22:02
DSKekahaDSKekaha
1,140412
1,140412
add a comment |
add a comment |
I would go for the word 'opportunist'
https://www.google.com.lb/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHWA_enLB632LB632&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=opportunist
opportunist
ɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/Submit
noun
1. a person who takes advantage of opportunities as and when they arise, regardless of planning or principle.
"most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists"
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
add a comment |
I would go for the word 'opportunist'
https://www.google.com.lb/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHWA_enLB632LB632&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=opportunist
opportunist
ɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/Submit
noun
1. a person who takes advantage of opportunities as and when they arise, regardless of planning or principle.
"most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists"
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
add a comment |
I would go for the word 'opportunist'
https://www.google.com.lb/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHWA_enLB632LB632&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=opportunist
opportunist
ɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/Submit
noun
1. a person who takes advantage of opportunities as and when they arise, regardless of planning or principle.
"most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists"
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
I would go for the word 'opportunist'
https://www.google.com.lb/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHWA_enLB632LB632&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=opportunist
opportunist
ɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/Submit
noun
1. a person who takes advantage of opportunities as and when they arise, regardless of planning or principle.
"most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists"
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
answered Jul 20 '15 at 7:51
Albert ZakhiaAlbert Zakhia
11
11
add a comment |
add a comment |
If the extremes include illegal acts, scofflaw may cover it.
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
add a comment |
If the extremes include illegal acts, scofflaw may cover it.
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
add a comment |
If the extremes include illegal acts, scofflaw may cover it.
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
If the extremes include illegal acts, scofflaw may cover it.
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
answered Jul 23 '15 at 20:40
PeterPeter
24114
24114
add a comment |
add a comment |
Zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their goals. Google
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
add a comment |
Zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their goals. Google
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
add a comment |
Zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their goals. Google
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
Zealot
A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their goals. Google
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
answered Jul 22 '15 at 1:44
Brock MatthewsBrock Matthews
1
1
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
add a comment |
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
Google is not a citable reference.
– tchrist♦
Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
add a comment |
protected by tchrist♦ Jul 22 '15 at 2:05
Thank you for your interest in this question.
Because it has attracted low-quality or spam answers that had to be removed, posting an answer now requires 10 reputation on this site (the association bonus does not count).
Would you like to answer one of these unanswered questions instead?
6
I wonder: Is there a distinction between a person who understands that the methods are extreme, vs one who doesn't?
– muru
Jul 15 '15 at 20:42
1
Are you looking for a word with negative connotations? Otherwise "dedicated" would perhaps work.
– Thomas Padron-McCarthy
Jul 16 '15 at 6:07
4
With everybody's comments, I can't help thinking that most (if not all) CEOs exhibit some fairly dangerous psychiatric patterns? Considering that they have to do 'what it takes' to make things work, sometimes even in the most desperate situations (hence extreme). Would a CEO be best described as a ruthless sociopath, focused on unmitigated achievement and winning at any cost, a hell-bent, machiavellian-monomaniacal extremist ?
– Alex
Jul 16 '15 at 15:25
4
"Littlefinger".
– Davor
Jul 17 '15 at 6:44
1
"go to extreme ends"? Do you not mean extreme means? Extremism can be called radical, but when the ends are aligned with means it's more like principled.
– Aki Suihkonen
Jul 17 '15 at 8:36