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What is the Meaning of “Coarse”?

Coarse
/kɔːrs/

Having a rough, bumpy surface; not smooth or delicate.

Definition of Coarse

Quick Meaning of Coarse

Having a rough, bumpy surface; not smooth or delicate.

Detailed Definition of Coarse

Rough or thick in texture; lacking refinement.

How to Pronounce Coarse

IPA: /kɔːrs/
coarse

Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).

Tip: Sounds like 'course'; stress on one syllable.

Watch out: Confused with 'course' due to identical pronunciation.

Full pronunciation guide for “coarse” →

Origin and Etymology of Coarse

From Old French 'cours', meaning rough or common.

How to Use Coarse in a Sentence

Each example shows “coarse” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The coarse fabric was rough to touch.”
    B1 daily
  • “Sandpaper comes in fine and coarse grades.”
    B1 conversation
  • “His coarse remarks offended many people.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Coarse

Common Synonyms for Coarse

Smart Synonyms for Coarse — When to Use Each

rough
for physical texture that is not smooth
crude
for behavior or speech lacking refinement
thick
for materials with heavy or dense texture

Antonyms of Coarse

See all synonyms for “coarse” →

Common Collocations with Coarse

These phrases pair with “coarse” in everyday English:

  • coarse sand
  • coarse fabric
  • coarse salt

Common Mistakes When Using Coarse

Even fluent speakers slip up with “coarse”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: She enrolled in a coarse at the university.
✓ Correct: She enrolled in a course at the university.
Why: Use 'course' for a class or curriculum.
✗ Wrong: The surface has a course texture.
✓ Correct: The surface has a coarse texture.
Why: coarse=rough texture; course=path or class

Words Confused With Coarse

  • Coarse vs Course: coarse=rough texture; course=path or educational class Compare →

Other Forms of Coarse

Frequently Asked Questions About Coarse

What is the meaning of "Coarse"?

Having a rough, bumpy surface; not smooth or delicate.

How do you pronounce "Coarse"?

The IPA is /kɔːrs/. Sounds like 'course'; stress on one syllable.

What part of speech is "Coarse"?

"Coarse" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Coarse"?

Common synonyms include rough, thick, crude.

How do you use "Coarse" in a sentence?

For example: "The coarse fabric was rough to touch."

Explore Coarse in Other Tools