adjective

coarse

/kɔːrs/ · say it: KORS

rough in texture

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) rough to the touch; not smooth or fine

2. (adjective) made of large pieces or grains; not fine in texture

3. (adjective) rude, impolite, or not refined in behavior or language

Examples

1. The coarse fabric felt rough against her skin.
2. The baker used coarse salt for the bread.
3. His coarse jokes offended many people at the dinner table.

How to use coarse

Coarse describes both physical texture (rough, made of large particles) and social behavior (vulgar, impolite). The behavioral sense is often disapproving and suggests a lack of sophistication or refinement. It differs from rude in implying a more fundamental lack of delicacy or culture.

Common phrases

coarse sand
coarse fabric
coarse language
coarse hair
coarse grain

Synonyms

rough · crude · vulgar · rude · uncouth

Opposites

fine · smooth · refined

Word family

coarsely (adverb) · coarseness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse coarse (rough texture or crude behavior) with course (a direction or educational program).

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