(of a surface) Not smooth
(of a person or governing body) Cruel or severe in nature
(of an action taken) Very severe or strict
(of cold weather or climate) Bitterly cold
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Unpleasantly rough or jarring to see or look at
“The harsh light from the sun made little Tommy squint through his glasses.”
Unpleasantly rough or jarring in smell or taste
“Some consumers felt that the condiment was particularly harsh on their noses and tastebuds.”
Unpleasantly rough or jarring to listen to
“He has a powerful, harsh voice that would carry well on a parade ground.”
(of a surface) Not smooth
“I would not recommend walking over the harsh cobbled surface.”
(of a person or governing body) Cruel or severe in nature
“Years of oppression by the harsh ruler would finally come to an end.”
(of an action taken) Very severe or strict
“The country's leaders are considering harsh measures to deal with the discontent.”
Severe and difficult to cope with
“Reports on harsh conditions for workers have been denied by the industry.”
Ill-mannered in nature
“Tempers were frayed and harsh words would be exchanged.”
Mentally difficult to come to terms with
“Your ability to accept the harsh reality of losses sends a clear message about your courage and commitment.”
Capable of damaging or destroying organic matter
“Be careful when handling those harsh cleaning solutions.”
(of cold weather or climate) Bitterly cold
“The explorers braved the harsh conditions to get to the summit.”
(of aesthetic sense) Excessively showy or ornamented
“He showed up to the party dressed in harsh colors of blue and purple.”
Not having or showing feeling or sympathy
Difficult or challenging in nature, especially physically
Producing or capable of producing significant noise
Displeasing to one's senses
Rude in a mean-spirited and surly way
Likely to lead to an adverse or bad outcome
Deeply pessimistic
Having or showing a tendency to be easily annoyed or angered
Not flattering
Pertaining to an accusation
Abrupt or unexpected in nature
Not diplomatic or tactful
Of great size, amount, or intensity
Never relaxing or slackening
Characterized by severe self-discipline and abstention from all forms of indulgence
Serving to caution or warn
To a total, utter or complete degree
Defiantly aggressive or bad-tempered
Not regular, consistent, or equal
Unsuitable for, or inconducive to, growing crops or vegetation
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