About
The character "粗" derives from the semantic element 米, meaning rice, and the phonetic element 且, originally denoting the quality of unrefined or coarse grain. From this concrete origin referring to unpollished rice, its meaning expanded to describe any object with a rough texture or crude manufacture, and further generalized to indicate approximate measurements or lack of precision. Over centuries, its semantic range widened into abstract and behavioral domains, conveying notions of rudeness or simplicity in manner, while still maintaining its fundamental association with physical thickness and lack of refinement. An older, more complex variant written as "麤" existed historically but the form composed of 米 and 且 ultimately prevailed, its structure continuously reflecting the tangible concept of material coarseness at its core.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这根绳子很粗。
他说话声音粗。
粗糙的桌面不舒服。
粗心的人常犯错。
多吃粗粮有益健康。
他的态度有些粗鲁。
这幅画的线条很粗。
粗俗的语言不受欢迎。