Uncouth: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe someone who behaves in a socially unacceptable or awkward way, often seen as rough or lacking refinement.

• His uncouth manners at the dinner table embarrassed everyone

A general term for disrespectful or offensively impolite behavior.

• She found his constant interruptions during the meeting very rude

A less intense term for rude behavior, especially in terms of neglecting social norms or basic manners.

• It was impolite of him to not say 'thank you' after receiving the gift

This word describes something or someone that is rough or unrefined. It can also imply vulgarity or lack of sophistication.

• His crude jokes offended many people at the party

This word is useful to describe rude or insensitive behavior, typically from someone who is uneducated or mannerless.

• The boorish guest loudly interrupted the speaker multiple times

Best used when describing behavior or manners that are considered rude or socially unacceptable.

• His uncouth remarks made everyone uncomfortable.
• The man's uncouth behavior at the dinner party shocked the guests.

Used when talking about someone who is physically or socially uncomfortable or does not know how to act appropriately in social situations.

• She felt awkward during her first day at the new job.
• There was an awkward silence after his joke fell flat.

Applies when referring to someone who is physically uncoordinated or prone to accidents.

• His clumsy attempt to catch the ball resulted in a fall.
• She is too clumsy to be a dancer.

Describes someone lacking elegance, sophistication, or cultured behavior.

• His unrefined table manners were a topic of discussion among the guests.
• She wished her new colleagues were less unrefined.

Used when referring to someone's lack of social grace or tact, especially in refined or sophisticated settings.

• His gauche comments during the meeting were embarrassing.
• She found his behavior at the gala to be extremely gauche.