Polite synonyms for "a——hole-ish" behavior

While I don’t use that word myself, like most profanity, its meaning is not very precise. It is used to mean many different things which is only sometimes informed by the context. I’ve seen (or heard) the word used to mean all of the following.

• arrogant
• mean-spirited
• hateful
• rude
• self-centered/self-absorbed
• condescending
• inconsiderate
• intolerant
• self-promoting (especially at the expense of others)
• stingy
• greedy
• argumentative
• hurtful
• abrupt, forward, or tactless in speech

Boorish is a pretty common option.

I would probably use the word intolerable, whose meaning is both clear and precise. Assholes can’t be tolerated.

Other similar options I’d consider would be unspeakable, reprehensible, and abhorrent.

Also, if you feel like basic synonyms for bad/awful lack force, you could always add a strengthening adverb. Calling someone’s behavior truly rotten, while kindergarten-friendly, is a serious accusation if leveled with the proper gravity.

In light of OP’s search for words both more basic and more emotional, I'm adding heartless and soulless to my list.

These alternatives to asshole-ish were made thinking about OP’s example in a comment about the behavior of the financial industry. I wasn’t really thinking about the general “jerk” sentiment.

I would call asshole-ish behavior “rude”.