Harshening

Harshening refers to the process of becoming severe, unyielding, or unkind, often characterized by an increase in intensity or a deterioration in gentleness. This term is commonly used to describe situations, environments, or behaviors that grow increasingly difficult, abrasive, or demanding. It can be applied in various contexts, such as climate conditions, disciplinary methods, or interpersonal relationships, highlighting a shift towards harder or more unpleasant circumstances.

Harshening meaning with examples

• As the winter approached, the harshening of the weather became evident, with colder temperatures and treacherous conditions setting in. Local farmers were concerned about the impact on their crops, as the environment shifted dramatically from a mild autumn to a brutal winter, forcing many of them to protect their fields against the frost and snow that followed, which affected not only their livelihood but also the community's food supply.
• In recent years, the harshening of the political climate has created deep divisions within society. As debates became more contentious and extreme, once-cordial discussions turned hostile. Citizens began to feel the effects of this transformation in their daily lives, leading to increased polarization, rampant misinformation, and even civil unrest in some areas, ultimately questioning the stability and civility of public discourse.
• The harshening of the corporate culture at the tech company was felt deeply by the employees. Once celebrated for its work-life balance, recent leadership changes led to relentless pressure to increase productivity and reduce costs. Overtime became the norm, stress levels surged, and the once-happy workplace environment was replaced with a sense of dread, creating tensions between management and staff that threatened overall morale.
• The recent climate reports indicated a harshening effect on global weather patterns, with an increase in severe storms and unpredictable temperature fluctuations. Scientists warned that if these patterns continued, the impact would be catastrophic for many regions, affecting agriculture, biodiversity, and even human settlements. This necessitated urgent attention and action from global leaders to address climate change and mitigate the harshening effects on the planet.