ENGLISH
REFERENCE

abrasive

adj.
C1 Advanced US //əˈbɹeɪsɪv// UK //ɐbɹˈeɪsɪv// abra·sive

adj. describing a person who is rude or unkind in a way that hurts other people's feelings. It can also describe a rough surface that can rub something away.

adj. characterised by a harsh, irritating, or overly aggressive manner in social interactions. When describing physical properties, refers to a substance capable of polishing or cleaning a hard surface by rubbing or grinding.


SIMPLE

Her abrasive personality makes it difficult for her to keep friends.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager's abrasive management style led to high staff turnover and low morale within the department.

COMPLEX

While his technical skills were beyond reproach, his abrasive approach to peer review often alienated the very colleagues whose support he needed for the project's success.

Synonyms
Origin

From Medieval Latin abrāsīvus

Usage

Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'become'.

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