C1adjective2K

Crude

UK /["/kruːd/"]/US /["/kruːd/"]/

Definition

in its natural state, before it has been processed or refined

In simple words: Not well made or done; rough.

Examples

  • **crude oil/metal**
  • the crude mortality rate
  • We adjusted crude effects for age, education, height and weight.
  • **crude jokes/language**
  • **In crude terms**, a heart attack is a plumbing problem in blood vessels around the heart.
  • a crude drawing of a face

Usage notes

Use 'crude' to describe something that is not refined or sophisticated, such as materials or behavior. It can be informal when discussing manners or language, but avoid using it to describe anything that requires a more formal tone.

Grammar pattern

crude + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'crude' drawing — it's simple and not detailed.

Collocations

  • crude oil
  • crude behavior
  • crude joke

Synonyms

  • rough
  • unrefined
  • basic
  • primitive
  • raw

Antonyms

  • refined
  • sophisticated
  • polished

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'rude' — they have different meanings.
  • Using 'crude' to describe something artistic, which may be inappropriate.
  • Misplacing 'crude' in phrases, such as saying 'crudely' instead of simply 'crude'.