harsh
/hɑ:ʃ/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Severe, cruel, or unkind: Describing something or someone that is unpleasantly rough, strict, or lacking in gentleness.
- Unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses: Describing something physically rough in texture, or unpleasantly strong, bright, loud, or bitter in taste, sound, light, or flavor.
- Extremely difficult and demanding: Describing conditions or environments that are very tough and unforgiving.
Usage and Examples
- Describing severity or cruelty:
- The judge gave a harsh sentence to the criminal.
- She received harsh criticism for her mistake.
- Describing rough physical qualities:
- The fabric had a harsh, scratchy texture.
- The harsh desert sun made travel difficult.
- Describing unpleasant sounds or tastes:
- The teacher's voice was harsh and grating.
- The medicine had a harsh, bitter flavor.
Advanced Usage
- "to be harsh on/with someone": To treat someone with excessive severity or criticism.
- Don't be too harsh on yourself; everyone makes errors.
- "harsh reality/truth": An unpleasant fact that is difficult to accept.
- The harsh reality is that we cannot afford a new car right now.
Variants and Related Words
- Harshly (adverb): In a severe, cruel, or rough manner.
- He spoke harshly to the employee.
- Harshness (noun): The quality of being severe, rough, or unpleasant.
- The harshness of the winter surprised them.
Synonyms
- Severe: Very intense or strict.
- Abrasive: Causing irritation or roughness, often in manner.
- Coarse: Rough in texture or manner.
- Bitter: Having a sharp, unpleasant taste; also used metaphorically for feelings.
Antonyms
- Gentle: Mild, kind, or soft.
- Smooth: Having an even, regular surface; free from difficulties.
- Pleasant: Giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Harsh words: Critical or unkind statements.
- They exchanged harsh words during the argument.
- Harsh conditions: Very difficult and demanding physical circumstances.
- The explorers survived in harsh conditions for weeks.
Adjective
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sharply disagreeable; rigorous
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the harsh facts of court delays
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an abrasive character
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severe
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a harsh penalty
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unkind or cruel or uncivil
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had harsh words
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a harsh and unlovable old tyrant
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a rough answer
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of textures that are rough to the touch or substances consisting of relatively large particles
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coarse meal
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coarse sand
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a coarse weave
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disagreeable to the senses
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the harsh cry of a blue jay
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harsh cognac
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the harsh white light makes you screw up your eyes
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harsh irritating smoke filled the hallway
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unpleasantly stern
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wild and harsh country full of hot sand and cactus
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the nomad life is rough and hazardous
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