Coarseness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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coarseness
[ˈkɔːrsnəs ]
Definition
of texture
The quality of being rough or harsh in texture. It can refer to the roughness of a surface or the coarseness of a material.
Synonyms
grittiness, harshness, roughness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| coarseness |
Describes something with a rough texture or lack of refinement in manners, language, or quality.
|
| roughness |
Describes a surface that is not smooth, or behavior that is unrefined or violent.
|
| grittiness |
Often used to describe a texture that resembles small, hard particles, or a person/scene that is tough and uncompromising.
|
| harshness |
Describes something severe, cruel, or unpleasant to the senses, such as sound, weather, or behavior.
|
Examples of usage
- The coarseness of the sandpaper made it perfect for smoothing out the rough edges of the wood.
- She complained about the coarseness of the fabric, saying it irritated her skin.
- The coarseness of the sugar crystals gave the dessert a satisfying crunch.
- The coarseness of the rope made it difficult to tie secure knots.
- The coarseness of the flour affected the texture of the baked goods.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culture
- In some cultures, coarseness can represent authenticity and frankness in communication, as seen in various folk tales.
- Contrastingly, many societies value politeness, where coarseness in behavior is deemed unacceptable.
- The artistic movement known as 'brutalist' architecture embraces coarseness, focusing on raw materials and unfinished surfaces.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that people often associate coarseness in communication with honesty, but it can sometimes create conflict.
- The human brain tends to perceive roughness as a cue for survival, linking it to danger or discomfort.
- Coarseness in humor can serve as a bonding experience among friends, but it can offend others.
Literature
- Classic literature often contrasts characters with coarse behavior against refined figures to highlight moral lessons.
- Coarseness in poetry can be used to evoke strong imagery and emotions, highlighting life's harsh realities.
- The use of coarse language in modern novels reflects the gritty nature of contemporary society.
Art
- Artists sometimes choose coarse materials to portray themes of survival and resilience in their work.
- In textile arts, the coarseness of fabric can signify the origin and craftsmanship behind the piece.
- Street art often employs a coarseness that blurs the line between vandalism and creative expression.
Origin of 'coarseness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'cors', meaning rough or thick.
- In Middle English, the term was used to describe rough textures in fabric or surfaces.
- It can be traced back to the Latin word 'crassus', which means thick or dense.
The word 'coarseness' originated from the Middle English 'cors', which meant roughness. It has been used since the 14th century to describe the quality of being rough or harsh in texture. Over time, 'coarseness' has been associated with the idea of lack of refinement or sophistication. It is commonly used in the context of describing textures, materials, or behaviors that are considered rough or unrefined.