Coarse: meaning, definitions and examples

๐ŸŒพ
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coarse

 

[kษ”หrs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

texture

Consisting of large particles; not fine in texture. Rough or harsh in quality.

Synonyms

gritty, rough, uneven.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coarse

Describes a texture that is rough, not smooth to the touch. Often used when referring to fabrics, surfaces, or ground materials that are abrasive.

  • The coarse sandpaper is perfect for removing old paint.
  • He wore a coat made from coarse wool that felt scratchy against his skin.
rough

Used to describe a surface that is not smooth or a situation that is difficult or unpleasant. It can apply to textures, conditions, or behaviors.

  • The rough bark of the tree was hard to climb.
  • It was a rough day at work; nothing seemed to go right.
gritty

Describes something that contains small pieces of sand or stone, or something that conveys toughness and bravery. Commonly used in contexts relating to textures or describing tough, determined people and situations.

  • The gritty texture of the beach sand stuck to her feet.
  • His gritty determination helped him overcome all obstacles.
uneven

Refers to surfaces or distributions that are not level, smooth, or consistent. Often used when talking about ground surfaces or measurements.

  • The uneven path made hiking difficult.
  • Her performance in the competition was uneven, with some excellent and some poor moments.

Examples of usage

  • The sand on the beach was coarse and gritty.
  • The fabric of the shirt felt coarse against my skin.
Context #2 | Adjective

language

Lacking refinement or delicacy; crude.

Synonyms

crude, uncouth, vulgar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
coarse

Used to describe textures that are rough or scratchy, or behavior and language that is not refined.

  • The sandpaper had a coarse surface
  • His jokes were a bit too coarse for the family dinner
crude

Typically refers to raw or rough forms of materials, or behavior and language that is primitive, unrefined, or socially inappropriate. Often has a negative connotation.

  • They extracted crude oil from the ground
  • His comments were crude and offensive
vulgar

Describes language, behavior, or tastes that are considered tasteless, indecent, or lacking in good taste. This has a strong negative connotation.

  • The graffiti on the wall was vulgar
  • His jokes were vulgar and made everyone uncomfortable
uncouth

Describes behavior or manners that are awkward, rude, or lacking in refinement, usually in social settings. It carries a strong negative connotation.

  • His uncouth manners at the dinner party embarrassed everyone
  • She found his loud laughter uncouth

Examples of usage

  • His coarse language offended many people at the party.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'crassus', which means thick or dense.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 14th century, originally describing fabrics.
  • Over time, the meaning expanded to describe anything that feels rough or is made of large particles.

Literature

  • In classic literature, coarse language often reflects a characterโ€™s social standing or personality.
  • Shakespeare used the word in various plays to illustrate differences in class and refinement.
  • Many poets contrast coarse and fine textures to evoke emotions or set a scene.

Science

  • In geology, coarse textures refer to rocks that have large grains, indicating slower cooling rates of magma.
  • Coarse materials, like gravel, are often used in construction for foundation stability.
  • In biology, a coarse surface can affect how organisms interact with their environment, like the grip of a rough surface for climbing.

Pop Culture

  • In fashion, coarse fabrics like burlap can be used for rustic themes or eco-friendly products.
  • The concept of 'coarse humor' is popular in stand-up comedy, often relying on shock value for laughs.
  • Influential artists use coarse textures in visual art to create depth and contrast in their work.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that coarse textures can evoke feelings of discomfort or unease in individuals.
  • Parents often use soft textures in children's books to invoke comfort and security.
  • Art therapy sometimes utilizes both coarse and smooth materials to explore emotional responses.

Translations

Translations of the word "coarse" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น grosseiro

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฎเฅ‹เคŸเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช grob

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ kasar

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณั€ัƒะฑะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ gruby

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็ฒ—ใ„ (arai)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท grossier

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ grosero

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kaba

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ฑฐ์นœ (geochin)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฎุดู†

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hrubรฝ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ hrubรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ฒ—็ณ™ (cลซcฤo)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ grobi

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ grรณfur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ำฉั€ะตัะบะตะป

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒฃแƒฎแƒ”แƒจแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ kobud

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ grosero

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,423, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.