the quality of being unpleasantly rough or severe, the quality of being unpleasantly cold or bitter

Formal and Informal Expressions of harshness

In different contexts, you can replace 'harshness' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'severity, rigor' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'toughness, hardship' is a commonplace synonym.

harshness: Explore its Definition & Usage

harshness Definition

1the quality of being unpleasantly rough or severe
2the quality of being unpleasantly cold or bitter

Using harshness: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "harshness" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The harshness of his words made her cry.
Example
The harshness of the winter wind was unbearable.
Example
The harshness of the punishment was meant to deter others from committing the same crime.

harshness Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for harshness

Antonyms for harshness

Phrases with harshness

harshness of life
the difficulties and challenges that one faces in life
Example
The harshness of life in poverty-stricken areas is unimaginable.
harshness of reality
the unpleasant or difficult aspects of the real world
Example
The harshness of reality hit him hard when he lost his job.
harshness of criticism
the severity or unkindness of critical remarks or comments
Example
The harshness of the criticism left her feeling demoralized.

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Summary: harshness in Brief

Harshness [hahrsh-nis] is the quality of being unpleasantly rough, severe, cold, or bitter. It can refer to the unpleasantness of words, weather, or punishment, as in 'The harshness of his words made her cry.' 'Harshness' extends into phrases like 'harshness of life,' and formals like 'severity,' and informals like 'toughness.'