The word you’re looking for is “course”. It rhymes with “source” and can be used in the context of something having a harsh or rough quality, especially when referring to a “course” manner, meaning a manner that is blunt, harsh, or uncivil.
1. Meaning of “Course”
The word “course” has several meanings depending on the context. One of the meanings relates to the quality or manner of something, and when used to describe a person’s behavior or actions, it often means blunt, unrefined, or harsh. This sense of the word is typically used when referring to someone’s mannerisms, speech, or approach to a situation that feels rough, insensitive, or lacking in subtlety.
2. Usage of “Course” in the Context of Harshness
When someone is described as having a “course” manner, it implies that their behavior is uncivil, crude, or unpolished. The individual may be blunt, lacking tact, or even rude, often unintentionally offending others due to the roughness or directness of their approach.
Examples:
- “He spoke in such a course manner that it upset everyone in the room.”
- Here, “course” suggests that the person’s way of speaking was blunt or lacking in refinement, likely making others uncomfortable.
- “Her course actions left no room for gentleness or consideration.”
- In this case, the word “course” highlights that the person’s actions were rough or lacking kindness or subtlety.
- “Despite his course exterior, he was actually quite kind-hearted.”
- In this example, “course” refers to the person’s outward behavior that might seem harsh, but in reality, it’s just their nature or way of interacting.
3. Related to Physical Characteristics
While “course” is often used to describe behavior, it can also refer to physical characteristics, usually meaning rough or unrefined texture. For instance, you might hear about “course sandpaper” or “course fabric,” both of which describe something that is rough or harsh to the touch.
Example in context:
- “The course surface of the stone made it difficult to walk on barefoot.”
- In this case, “course” refers to the physical texture of the stone, suggesting it’s harsh or abrasive.
4. Etymology and Connection to “Source”
Both “course” and “source” share a similar root in Latin, but their meanings have diverged over time. “Source” generally refers to the origin of something, while “course” can refer to a path, direction, or process (like the course of a river), and when used in the context of behavior or manner, it takes on that connotation of roughness or bluntness.
Summary:
The word “course” rhymes with “source” and is used to describe something or someone that is harsh, crude, or unrefined, particularly in terms of behavior or manner. It indicates a lack of subtlety, politeness, or gentleness, often used in situations where someone’s approach or communication is perceived as too direct or blunt..