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harsh

adjective

/hɑrʃ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of harsh

Severe, rough, or lacking gentleness or kindness.
"The teacher's harsh criticism left the student feeling demoralized."

Detailed meaning of harsh

It refers to a quality or characteristic that is stern, strict, or uncompromising. When something is described as harsh, it implies a lack of sympathy, leniency, or consideration. It can be used to describe a person's behavior, words, or actions that are overly critical, unkind, or blunt. Harsh can also refer to physical qualities that are unpleasant, abrasive, or intense, such as harsh weather conditions or harsh lighting. Additionally, the term can describe an environment or situation that is challenging, unforgiving, or difficult to endure. In summary, the adjective 'harsh' conveys a sense of severity, toughness, or unyieldingness, often associated with conditions or behaviors that are harsh in nature and lacking in softness or compassion.

Example sentences containing harsh

1. The harsh winter wind cut through their clothes, making them shiver.
2. The company implemented harsh measures to cut costs, including layoffs.
3. The harsh fluorescent lighting in the office caused headaches for many employees.
4. The judge handed down a harsh sentence to the convicted criminal.
5. The child was reprimanded for using harsh language towards their classmates.
6. The harsh reality of the situation was difficult for them to accept.

History and etymology of harsh

The adjective 'harsh' has its origins in the Old English word 'heorsc,' which meant 'rough' or 'coarse.' This Old English term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'harskaz,' which conveyed a similar sense of roughness or severity. Over time, 'harsh' evolved to describe anything that is severe, cruel, or lacking in gentleness or kindness, making it a fitting word to depict something that is decidedly ungentle or unkind in nature.

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Further usage examples of harsh

1. The harsh desert terrain posed challenges for the hikers.
2. The parent's harsh punishment for a minor mistake seemed excessive.
3. The harsh chemical detergent irritated her sensitive skin.
4. The boss had a reputation for his harsh management style.
5. The movie depicted the harsh living conditions in the impoverished neighborhood.
6. The harsh winter winds cut through my jacket like a knife.
7. Her criticism was unnecessarily harsh and hurtful.
8. The harsh reality of life can be difficult to accept.
9. The harsh desert terrain made the journey grueling.
10. He faced harsh punishment for his reckless actions.
11. The judge delivered a harsh sentence to the criminal.
12. Harsh words can leave lasting scars on a relationship.
13. The harsh fluorescent lights made the room feel sterile.
14. The teacher's harsh grading left students discouraged.
15. Surviving in the wilderness requires harsh survival skills.
16. The harsh glare of the sun made me squint.
17. The harsh economic conditions led to widespread poverty.
18. She had a harsh demeanor that intimidated others.
19. The harsh noise of the machinery was deafening.
20. The harsh truth was that they were running out of time.
21. The harsh chemicals in the cleaning products were toxic.
22. His harsh criticism only served to demoralize the team.
23. The harsh climate made agriculture difficult in the region.
24. They faced harsh consequences for their unethical behavior.
25. The harsh lighting in the interrogation room made him uneasy.