difference between harsh and cruel
ungentle and unpleasant in action or effect: harsh treatment; harsh manners. 2. grim or unpleasantly severe; stern; cruel; austere: a harsh life; a harsh master. 3. physically uncomfortable; desolate; stark: a harsh land.
adj. cruÂ·elÂ·er, cruÂ·elÂ·est or cruÂ·elÂ·ler or cruÂ·elÂ·lest. 1. Disposed to inflict pain or suffering: a cruel tyrant. 2. Causing or characterized by severe pain, suffering, or distress: cruel treatment; a cruel remark.