1
as in bitterness
a harsh or sharp quality
there was a harshness about her voice that made her an unlikely but surprisingly evocative singer of torch songs
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in severity
the quality or state of being demanding or unyielding (as in discipline or criticism)
was surprised at the harshness of the choirmaster's criticism, since he was usually pretty easygoing
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for harshness
Noun
-
How Long Does Recovery From A Groin Strain Take? The recovery period depends on the grade and severity.—
Bruce Y. Lee,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2025 -
When comparing 80-degree Fahrenheit days to days in the 40s, there was a 40 to 45% increase in the frequency or severity of sleep apnea.—
Matthew Glasser,
ABC News,
30 June 2025
Noun
-
Try a piece of kielbasa, known for its earthy and slightly sweet flavor with a prominence of garlic, or a bite of mild and milky farmer’s cheese, which will leave taste buds tangy.—
Olivia Lee,
Charlotte Observer,
1 July 2025
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Nick offered a brief izakaya definition for readers who aren’t familiar: An izakaya is Japan’s version of an English pub, with drinks, small bites and a social vibe.—
Jenna Thompson,
Kansas City Star,
29 June 2025
Noun
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Like Squid Game, The Prisoner beguiles the viewer by turning traditional symbols of familiar, homegrown calm (in this case, an idyllic seaside town) into disorientating weapons that keep the characters on a knife's edge.—
Rory Doherty,
Time,
27 June 2025
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Cook, undisturbed, until pancake edges are dry and bubbles begin to form on surface, about 3 minutes.—
Elizabeth Nelson,
Southern Living,
27 June 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Harshness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/harshness. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.
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