na-adjective, noun
cruel treatment; harshness; oppression
Describes severe, merciless treatment, often in a social or political context. Can be used as a noun or adjectival noun.
その独裁者は国民に苛虐な政策を強いた。
The dictator imposed cruel policies on the people.
歴史には苛虐な行為が数多く記録されている。
History records many acts of cruelty.