harsh
Translation
harsh, severe, cruel, coarse
Examples
The punishment was too harsh.
The punishment was too harsh.
He received harsh criticism.
He received harsh criticism.
The desert has a harsh climate.
The desert has a harsh climate.
Grammar Patterns
((harsh)) + noun used to describe (sth.) as severe or cruel The punishment was too harsh.
Similar Words
Synonyms: severe, strict, cruel; Antonyms: gentle, mild, soft
Etymology
From Middle English 'harsk', meaning 'rough, coarse, sour'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a harsh sound, like a harp played badly. The word itself sounds a bit rough.