Crude: meaning, definitions and examples

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crude

[kruːd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

oil

In its crude form, oil is unrefined and contains impurities.

Synonyms

natural, raw, unrefined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
crude	Suitable when referring to something in a rough or unfinished state, often implying a lack of sophistication or refinement. The artist's first sketches were quite crude, but they showed potential. His crude manners made many people uncomfortable.
unrefined	Applies to materials that have not been purified or processed; can also describe behavior that lacks elegance or sophistication. They exported unrefined oil, which was later processed in another country. Her unrefined manners were noticeable at the formal event.
raw	Best for describing something in its original state, not processed or cooked. Can also imply a sense of freshness and energy. Eating raw vegetables is healthier than cooked ones. The raw data hasn't been analyzed yet.
natural	Used when describing something that exists in or is derived from nature; not made or caused by humankind. The park is known for its natural beauty. She has a natural talent for singing.

Examples of usage

The crude oil needs to be refined before it can be used as fuel.
Crude oil prices have been fluctuating due to global demand.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

language

Using vulgar or offensive language that lacks tact or sensitivity.

Synonyms

crass, tactless, vulgar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
crude	Use this word to describe something that is unrefined, undeveloped, or lacking sophistication. It can refer to both behavior and physical objects/materials. His joke was rather crude and offended many people. The crude oil needs to be refined before it can be used as fuel.
vulgar	This word describes something that is coarse, crude, and often offensive in its lack of refinement or good taste. It has a strong negative connotation. The vulgar language in the movie was unnecessary and distracting. He was criticized for his vulgar behavior at the formal dinner.
crass	This word is best suited for describing behavior that is grossly insensitive or lacking in sensitivity and intelligence. It has a negative connotation. His crass remarks during the meeting upset everyone. Making crass jokes about someone's appearance is never acceptable.
tactless	This word is used to describe actions or words that show a lack of sensitivity, often unintentionally offending or upsetting others. Generally less harsh than 'crass', but still not favorable. Her tactless comments about his family hurt his feelings. It was quite tactless of him to bring up the topic at such a sensitive moment.

Examples of usage

His crude jokes offended many people at the party.
She was criticized for her crude remarks during the meeting.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

person

A person who lacks refinement or sophistication in manners or behavior.

Synonyms

boor, lout, uncouth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
crude	Describing something or someone in a rough or unrefined manner, often lacking sophistication or good manners. His comments were crude and highly inappropriate for the formal setting. The first version of the prototype was very crude, but it worked.
boor	Referring to a person who lacks good manners or refined behavior, often acting in a rude and insensitive way. He was a boor at the dinner party, ignoring all the social etiquette. No one wanted to talk to the boor who constantly interrupted the conversation.
uncouth	Describing behavior or appearance that is awkward, ungraceful, and lacking in social polish. Often implies a lack of education or sophistication. His uncouth manners were shocking to the well-bred guests. She found his jokes uncouth and distasteful.
lout	Describing someone who is clumsy and uncouth, often behaving badly, typically young and male. It has a stronger and more negative connotation than 'boor'. The louts were causing trouble in the park, shouting and littering everywhere. She refused to go out with him because she thought he was a lout.

Examples of usage

He was considered a crude by the upper-class society.
The crude's behavior at the dinner party was embarrassing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Originates from the Latin word 'crudus', meaning 'raw' or 'bloody', which highlights its basic nature.
Initially used in English in the 14th century, primarily in reference to unrefined substances.

Science

Crude oil is a natural resource that is extracted from the ground, used to produce fuel and various products.
In chemistry, crude samples may contain impurities that need to be distilled or refined to create usable products.

Pop Culture

Crude humor is prevalent in many comedy shows and movies, often eliciting laughter through shock value.
The term 'crude' often appears in discussions about music genres that use explicit language or situations, particularly in hip-hop.

Psychology

People may respond to crude statements or actions with surprise or discomfort, as it often breaks social norms.
Research shows that crude expressions can sometimes act as a bonding mechanism among individuals who share similar humor styles.

Art

Crude art forms, such as outsider art, often lack formal training but reflect raw creativity and personal expression.
The roughness of crude artwork can resonate deeply, as it often portrays unfiltered emotions and experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "crude" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bruto

🇮🇳 कच्चा

🇩🇪 roh

🇮🇩 kasar

🇺🇦 сирий

🇵🇱 surowy

🇯🇵 粗い (あらい)

🇫🇷 brut

🇪🇸 crudo

🇹🇷 ham

🇰🇷 조잡한

🇸🇦 خام

🇨🇿 surový

🇸🇰 surový

🇨🇳 粗糙 (cūcāo)

🇸🇮 surov

🇮🇸 hrá

🇰🇿 шикі

🇬🇪 მკრთალი

🇦🇿 kobud

🇲🇽 crudo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,686, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3683 widow
3684 stayed
3685 granting
3686 crude
3687 stepped
3688 defeat
3689 sad
...