a bit coarse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit coarse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is rough, unrefined, or lacking in delicacy, often in relation to texture, language, or behavior. Example: "The fabric felt a bit coarse against my skin, making it uncomfortable to wear for long periods."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Although 75 microns is still a bit coarse, Dr Palanker hopes to improve it soon, to 40 microns.

The Economist

He was also very clever, obviously – but it's accurate to show him as subversive and a bit coarse.

The Guardian - Film

She remembers the food too - home-baked bread that was brown and "a bit coarse" - and the lessons she was taught about "what food was good for you", lessons she passed on to her children and grandchildren.

The Guardian - Opinion

Meanwhile, put the parsnip (and potato, if you're using a mix of the two) in a large bowl and mash with a fork – don't worry if the mash is a bit coarse and chunky (this will probably be the case if you're using roasted parsnips).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But uneven-cylinder engines always feel a bit coarse and this one is no different.

Forbes

Textured and silky but a bit coarse, rabbit and coyote are good choices.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Very soft… I like it a bit coarser.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The panko is toastier-tasting and a bit coarser than matzo meal, and somewhat more absorbent when coating cutlets or fish cakes.

The New York Times

First, a segmented architecture with a 5-bit coarse ADC and an 11-bit fine ADC was used.

Integration

The ADC consists of a 6-bit coarse SAR ADC, a residue amplifier and a 7-bit fine SAR ADC.

Microelectronics Journal

The chef places a long, smooth bamboo tray before me, with a tangle of daikon, some pickled ginger and a bit of coarse salt on one end.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing textures, consider if "a bit coarse" accurately reflects the tactile experience. If the texture is significantly rough, use stronger terms like "rough" or "uneven".

Common error

In formal contexts, substituting "a bit coarse" with more precise descriptors like "slightly unrefined" or "somewhat rough" can enhance clarity and professionalism. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and select vocabulary accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit coarse" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically describing a noun by indicating a slight or moderate degree of roughness, crudeness, or lack of refinement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Lifestyle

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit coarse" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that is slightly rough, unrefined, or lacking in delicacy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for neutral to informal contexts, though more formal settings might benefit from more precise language. The phrase commonly appears in News & Media and Lifestyle content, offering a tempered description of textures, behaviors, or qualities. Related phrases like "somewhat rough" or "slightly unrefined" can provide alternatives for enhanced clarity. When using this phrase, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and choose the descriptor that best fits the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat rough

Highlights the uneven or crude quality.

slightly unrefined

Emphasizes the lack of polish or sophistication.

a tad crude

Indicates a slight lack of refinement or delicacy.

somewhat unpolished

Emphasizes the lack of refinement and smoothness.

a little abrasive

Focuses on the irritating or harsh quality.

slightly indelicate

Underlines the lack of sensitivity or finesse.

a shade rough around the edges

Highlights imperfections and lack of sophistication.

marginally vulgar

Draws attention to the lack of taste or sophistication.

a touch uncouth

Highlights the boorish or unrefined behavior.

a fraction blunt

Focuses on the direct and insensitive quality.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit coarse" in a sentence?

"A bit coarse" is typically used to describe something that is rough or unrefined. For example: "The sugar was "a bit coarse", not as finely ground as I expected" or "His language was "a bit coarse" for such a formal occasion".

What are some alternatives to "a bit coarse"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "slightly rough", "somewhat unrefined", or "a tad crude".

Is it appropriate to use "a bit coarse" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a bit coarse" might be considered too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more precise and sophisticated vocabulary like "slightly unrefined" or "somewhat abrasive".

What's the difference between "a bit coarse" and "very coarse"?

"A bit coarse" suggests a mild degree of roughness or lack of refinement, while "very coarse" indicates a significant or pronounced level of roughness. The choice depends on the specific intensity you wish to convey.