Coarse

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kɔːrs/

Definitions

• Rough or harsh in texture or feel.
• Lacking in refinement or delicacy; crude or unpolished.
• In terms of sound, it may describe something unpleasant or harsh to the ears.
• In the context of food, it can refer to a grainy or chunky texture, as opposed to smooth or fine.

Usage Examples

• The coarse fabric of the sack scratched against her skin.
• The coarse language used in the conversation made everyone uncomfortable.
• He had a coarse voice that could be heard over a great distance.
• The coarse grains of the sugar did not dissolve easily in the tea.

Etymology

The word "coarse" comes from the Middle English word "cors," which originated from the Old French word "cours" meaning "course" or "rough." It is related to the Latin "currere," meaning "to run," referring to the rough, unrefined nature of something that is not finely processed or smoothed.

Synonyms

• Rough
• Harsh
• Crude
• Unrefined
• Grainy
• Scratchy

Antonyms

• Fine
• Smooth
• Refined
• Polished
• Delicate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In different regions, the pronunciation of "coarse" may vary slightly. For example, in some areas of the United States, the 'r' sound is more pronounced, while in British English, the 'r' is often softer or not pronounced at all. In some regions, it may also be pronounced with a slightly more drawn-out vowel sound.

Historical Usage

The term "coarse" has been used since the Middle Ages, primarily to describe rough or unrefined textures in fabrics, food, and materials. Over time, it also took on figurative meanings, referring to unrefined speech, manners, or behavior. In the 19th century, it became increasingly associated with physical and material qualities, particularly in the fields of botany, zoology, and manufacturing.

Cultural Nuances

In certain cultures, being described as "coarse" can carry a negative connotation, often referring to individuals who are perceived as crude or lacking sophistication. However, in other contexts, the word may carry more neutral or even positive connotations, such as in describing food that is hearty or satisfying, or textures that are intentionally rough, like those found in traditional crafts or materials.

More Information

The word "coarse" is used in a variety of contexts, from describing physical properties like roughness to metaphorical qualities such as unrefinement or crudeness. It is often used in negative connotations when referring to manners or behavior, but it can also be used neutrally or positively in some situations, such as in describing certain types of food, fabrics, or textures. The flexibility of the term makes it applicable in many different fields, from everyday conversation to specialized disciplines like manufacturing and art.