What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harshness
Example
The teacher's harshness towards the students made them feel discouraged. [harshness: noun]
Example
The harshness of the winter weather made it difficult to go outside. [harshness: noun]
roughness
Example
The roughness of the sandpaper made it difficult to smooth out the wood. [roughness: noun]
Example
The wrestler was disqualified for his roughness towards his opponent. [roughness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Roughness is more commonly used than harshness in everyday language. Roughness is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while harshness is less common and refers to specific situations or circumstances.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between harshness and roughness?
Both harshness and roughness can be used in formal and informal contexts, but harshness may be perceived as more formal due to its association with critical or severe situations.
