Definition

Adjective: - Rude or uncouth in speech: Describes a person who speaks in a blunt, harsh, or impolite manner, often without refinement or consideration for others' feelings.

Usage

The adjective "rough-spoken" is used to characterize a person's typical manner of speaking. It implies a lack of polish, tact, or gentleness in verbal expression. It is typically used attributively (before a noun) or predictively (after a linking verb like "be" or "seem").

Examples

• Attributive use:
  • The rough-spoken coach often motivated his team with harsh criticism.
  • Despite his rough-spoken exterior, he had a kind heart.
• Predictive use:
  • The old sailor was known to be rough-spoken but honest.
  • She seemed rough-spoken at first, but her advice was always practical.

Advanced Usage

• "to be rough-spoken": This is the standard construction to describe someone's characteristic speech.
  • The politician was criticized for being rough-spoken during the debate.
• "rough-spoken and...": Often used in conjunction with other contrasting or complementary traits.
  • He was rough-spoken and direct, but everyone respected his integrity.

Variants and Related Words

• Blunt (adj): Direct and uncompromising in speech, often to the point of rudeness.
  • She appreciated his blunt advice, even if it was hard to hear.
• Brusque (adj): Abrupt or offhand in speech or manner.
  • His brusque reply left her feeling dismissed.
• Coarse (adj): (Of a person or their speech) rude, vulgar, or lacking refinement.
  • He was reprimanded for his coarse language in the meeting.
• Uncouth (adj): Lacking good manners, refinement, or grace.
  • His uncouth behavior at the dinner party was embarrassing.

Synonyms

• Blunt
• Brusque
• Crude
• Discourteous
• Impolitic
• Unpolished

Antonyms

• Eloquent
• Polished
• Refined
• Suave
• Tactful
• Urbane

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To call a spade a spade: To speak plainly and directly, without euphemism. (This shares the directness of "rough-spoken" but is not necessarily rude.)
  • He's the type to call a spade a spade, which some find refreshing and others find rough-spoken.
• To mince words: To speak vaguely or indirectly to avoid offense. (This is the opposite behavior of a rough-spoken person.)
  • A rough-spoken person does not mince words.

Adjective

1. rude or uncouth in speech