Gruffness

Gruffness is the quality of being rough or stern in manner or speech. It often implies a curt and unfriendly way of interacting with others, characterized by a lack of warmth, patience, or politeness. This trait can manifest in a harsh tone of voice, abrupt gestures, or an overall demeanor that discourages interaction and conveys an air of impatience or disapproval. gruffness can stem from various factors, including personal temperament, stress, fatigue, or a deliberate attempt to project authority or distance. It is often perceived as off-putting and can strain relationships.

Gruffness meaning with examples

• The old fisherman's gruffness, though intimidating at first, hid a kind heart. He barked orders at his crew, but always ensured everyone was safe and well-fed. Beneath his rough exterior, his loyalty to them was unparalleled, making them overlook his abrupt manner. This gruffness was a shield to hide a lifetime of hardship, and it worked.
• Her manager's gruffness during the meeting made the team feel dejected. She was notorious for her short temper and curt replies, making it difficult to seek her assistance. The employees felt they were always walking on eggshells around her, unsure of when her mood would turn negative. This created a stressful work environment
• Despite his gruffness, the guard at the art gallery was surprisingly knowledgeable. His initial 'Don't touch anything!' was off-putting, but when pressed he could reel off the history of each artwork, making him a surprisingly pleasant resource despite his harsh initial encounter and showing he was not as hostile as his exterior appeared.
• The gruffness of the mountain guide was legendary; his voice cracked like granite. New climbers who were inexperienced found his harsh commands scary. He was tough but necessary, teaching them essential survival skills and never compromising on safety, meaning that his tough talk got people through harsh climates and situations.