A2adjective1K

Rude

UK /["/ruːd/"]/US /["/ruːd/"]/

Definition

having or showing a lack of respect for other people and their feelings

In simple words: Not polite or friendly.

Examples

  • It was rude of him to interrupt the speaker.
  • She found his rude comments very offensive.
  • The rude behavior of the child shocked everyone at the party.
  • It would be rude to not say thank you.
  • Sometimes, kids can be rude without realizing it.

Usage notes

Use 'rude' when someone behaves disrespectfully. Avoid in formal settings; use 'discourteous' instead.

Grammar pattern

rude + to + person

Memory hint

Think of 'rude' as 'rude dude'—imagine a guy being disrespectful to others.

Collocations

  • appear
  • be
  • feel
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about
  • to

Synonyms

  • impolite
  • primitive

Antonyms

  • polite
  • courteous
  • respectful

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'crude'; both imply negativity but 'crude' also suggests vulgarity.
  • Overusing 'rude' in formal writing; consider more specific terms.
  • Assuming 'rude' can only describe words; it can also apply to behavior.