harsh
1 ENTRIES FOUND:
harsher;
harshest
harsher;
harshest
Britannica Dictionary definition of HARSH
[also more harsh; most harsh]
1
a
:
unpleasant and difficult to accept or experience
-
The climate there is very harsh.
-
We've had an extremely harsh winter.
-
a harsh environment
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It's time for her to face the harsh realities of this situation.
-
The accident serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of wearing a seat belt.
b
:
having an unpleasant or harmful effect because of great strength or force
:
too intense or powerful
-
harsh colors
-
a harsh [=shrill] whistle/voice
-
The lighting in the room was very harsh.
-
harsh chemicals/detergents
2
a
:
severe or cruel
:
not kind
-
harsh discipline
-
a harsh disciplinarian
-
The state has established harsh penalties for drug dealers.
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She has been criticized for her harsh treatment of her students.
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He was sentenced to a harsh prison term.
b
:
very critical
:
strongly negative
-
He had harsh words for his opponent.
-
harsh language
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She has faced some extremely harsh criticism.
-
He has been one of her harshest critics.
— harshly
adverb [more harshly; most harshly]-
She promised to deal harshly with all criminals.
-
He treats his students harshly.
-
The room was harshly lit.
