crass

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'crass' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is considered to be vulgar, tasteless, or lacking in sensitivity or refinement. For example: "He made a crass comment about her intelligence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Dome was undermined by the unforgivably crass and soulless Millennium Experience exhibition of 2000; it was many years before it redeemed itself as today's O2 music venue.

The Guardian - Arts

He said the officer was making a point against segregation, but conceded the comments were "clumsy and crass".

The Guardian

At some shallow level there is, of course, a crass analogy that's not worth making between Lucas's stockinged nude sprawled on a chair and a Rubens woman – but it's not a revealing insight about either artist.

The Guardian - Arts

Eight months ago Warner was the clown a whole nation – and possibly two nations – could laugh at, a caricature of the crass, unthinking, aggressive bogan so exotic he seemed to have been pulled straight from the pre-internet era, Australian cricket's own Barney Gumble.

The Guardian - Sport

To paraphrase Crass and Billy Bragg – all big eggs Benedict fans, I'm sure – do not pay more than £6.99.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Demands from Greece's creditors for more austerity is, in these circumstances, inhumane and economically crass.

The Guardian - Business

It's also been at least two months since Jeremy Clarkson said something deliberately crass, so expect another gate suffix over Christmas.

The Guardian - Opinion

Branding, to be crass, is a means of selling a place – a building, a district or a city.

The Guardian

Sure, he's still crass, unthinking and aggressive, but he manages to be all those things and score a ton of runs at the same time.

The Guardian - Sport

Saltzman was, by all accounts, the ultimate caricature of the movie producer: warm, loud, crass, a consummate gambler with the requisite rackety past, a keen eye for the main chance and a tight fist around the purse strings.

The Guardian - Film

As for the goal itself, it seems crass to describe it from the footage when the aim of this piece is to point out that the strike was so special because, until recently, it was seen only by those who were at Anfield.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "crass" when you want to emphasize a lack of sensitivity or refinement that is offensive or inappropriate. Ensure the context clearly indicates the offensive nature of the behavior or statement.

Common error

Avoid using "crass" to describe simple mistakes or unintentional errors. The term implies a deliberate or flagrant disregard for social norms and sensitivities, not just a minor oversight.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the word "crass" is as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something as being coarsely insensitive, crude, or unrefined. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in describing offensive behavior or remarks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "crass" is used to describe something that is coarsely insensitive, crude, or unrefined. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used in English writing. Its primary function is to express disapproval, most frequently in News & Media contexts. As shown by Ludwig, "crass" suggests a deliberate lack of sensitivity rather than a simple mistake. Synonyms include "insensitive", "crude", and "tasteless". Using "crass" effectively involves understanding its negative connotation and ensuring its appropriateness for the intended audience and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insensitive

Focuses specifically on the lack of consideration for others' feelings.

crude

Emphasizes a lack of refinement or sophistication.

tasteless

Highlights the lack of aesthetic judgment or social appropriateness.

vulgar

Indicates a lack of good breeding or refinement; often implies offensiveness.

boorish

Suggests rudeness and a lack of social grace.

oafish

Implies clumsiness and stupidity, often leading to insensitive behavior.

uncouth

Highlights a lack of polish and refinement in manners or appearance.

coarse

Similar to crude, but can also suggest a lack of delicacy or precision.

indecorous

Specifically refers to behavior that violates standards of good taste or propriety.

tactless

Emphasizes a lack of skill in dealing with sensitive issues or people.

FAQs

How can I use "crass" in a sentence?

You can use "crass" to describe behavior, comments, or attitudes that are insensitive and lack refinement. For instance, "His "crass remark" offended everyone at the table."

What's a less harsh synonym for "crass"?

Depending on the context, you could use words like "insensitive", "crude", or "tasteless". These alternatives may soften the criticism while still conveying a lack of refinement.

Is "crass" a formal or informal word?

"Crass" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it generally carries a negative connotation. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when using this word.

What is the difference between "crass" and "vulgar"?

While both words describe something unpleasant, "crass" emphasizes insensitivity and a lack of refinement, whereas "vulgar" suggests a lack of good breeding and can be more explicitly offensive.