Cruder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cruder

[ˈkruːdə(r) ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

general use

The term 'cruder' is the comparative form of 'crude,' commonly used to describe something that is not refined or processed. This can refer to materials, behaviors, or expressions that lack sophistication or delicacy. In a social context, it often implies a lack of manners or consideration. For instance, a cruder form of humor may be considered offensive or inappropriate. Overall, the word suggests a raw or unpolished quality.

Synonyms

blunter, coarser, rougher, unrefined.

Examples of usage

  • His cruder comments upset many in the room.
  • The cruder version of the artwork was more popular among the masses.
  • In the cruder parts of the city, the infrastructure often needs significant improvement.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Societal Norms

  • In social contexts, being called 'crude' often implies that someone's behavior or remarks are socially unacceptable or lacking in manners.
  • Certain art forms, like punk music and underground films, celebrate a crude aesthetic as a form of rebellion against mainstream culture.
  • The perception of what is considered 'crude' varies widely across different cultures and communities.

Science and Technology

  • In science, crude materials are often initial versions that require refinement, such as crude oil being processed into gasoline.
  • Research on materials often starts with crude versions before developing into high-tech products.
  • In biology, crude oil was an important discovery for understanding energy resources and led to technological advancements.

Pop Culture

  • Crude humor is popular in many comedic genres, often involving jokes that touch on taboo subjects.
  • Several films and television shows use crude language and themes to explore deeper social issues within a comedic context.
  • Famous comedians like George Carlin have pushed boundaries with crude humor, challenging societal norms and censorship.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that using crude language can sometimes act as a form of stress relief.
  • People may resort to crude expressions when they feel vulnerable or marginalized, using it as a means of expressing their frustrations.
  • The use of crude language can impact how messages are received, often evoking strong emotional reactions from others.

Origin of 'cruder'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'crude' comes from the Latin word 'crudus,' which means raw or unrefined.
  • The first known use of 'crude' in English was in the late 15th century, primarily describing unrefined materials.
  • Over time, 'crude' evolved to describe not only materials but also uncivilized behavior.

The word 'crude' originates from the Latin 'crudus', meaning 'raw' or 'uncooked'. Its evolution into the English language retained these core meanings, relating to unrefined states in both physical and metaphorical senses. Over time, 'crude' has expanded to include a range of descriptors, particularly in industries like oil extraction, where 'crude oil' refers to unrefined petroleum products. The comparative form 'cruder' gained usage as society has sought to differentiate degrees of refinement or tact, particularly in social interactions and artistic expressions. The term has also found new life in contemporary discussions surrounding the internet and media, where it can denote a lack of sophistication or sensitivity. This resilience and adaptability of the word underscore its importance in everyday vocabulary.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,183, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.