# abrasiveness

/ɐbɹˈeɪsɪvnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abrasiveness
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the quality of being very harsh, rude, or difficult to deal with. It describes someone or something that causes friction or pain.

For teachers: the quality of being harsh, coarse, or difficult to tolerate; the property of causing friction or wearing away a surface. Often describes interpersonal behavior or physical materials.

## Examples

- His abrasiveness made it hard for him to have friends.
- The manager's abrasiveness during the meeting caused several employees to leave the room in frustration.
- The geological survey noted the extreme abrasiveness of the local sandstone, which had worn down the ancient stone tools found in the valley.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.