hoarse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hoarse Word Meanings
- having a rough or harsh voice
- sounded low or rough due to irritation
- having a rasping quality
hoarse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hoarse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/hɔːs/
US
/hɔrs/
hoarse Word Etymology
Root decomposition: hoarse (root). Historical origin: Old English 'hærs', influenced by Old Norse 'harsk'. Memory image: Imagine a horse that has just run a long race, breathing heavily and making a rough sound, reminiscent of a hoarse voice.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Hoarse describes a voice that sounds rough, harsh, or strained. It often appears after shouting, singing, or talking for a long time, or when the throat is irritated by a cold. A hoarse voice may feel dry or sore and can make words sound deeper, raspier, or less clear. People say someone has a hoarse voice, or that their throat is hoarse. Hoarseness can be temporary and improve with rest, fluids, or honey, but it can also signal illness if it lasts several days. An image to help memory is a horse panting after a long run, which captures the rough, labored quality of hoarse.
Usage Reminders
- Hoarse describes voice quality, not a person.
- Use with be or become: become hoarse, have a hoarse voice.
- Temporary hoarseness improves with rest, fluids, and soothing tea.
- Note the noun hoarseness for the condition.
- Avoid confusing with harsh or loud; hoarse is rough texture, not volume.
- In medical contexts, persistent hoarseness may require evaluation.
Common Misconceptions
- Hoarse means someone is loud or angry; it does not describe volume.
- It is a permanent trait; hoarseness is usually temporary.
- Hoarseness only comes from shouting; coughing or singing can also cause it.
- Hoarseness and harshness are the same; they describe different voice qualities.
- Hoarseness must be severe to be noted; mild raspy voices can still be hoarse.
Thinking Differences
Native speakers focus on voice quality, not personality; learners often confuse hoarse with loudness or harshness.
Learning Tips
- Listen for texture, not volume: a hoarse voice can be soft in loud contexts.
- Pair with verbs like 'become' or 'develop' to describe onset.
- Note temporary vs persistent hoarseness to decide if medical advice is needed.
- Practice using 'hoarse' with situations (sport, cold, shouting) for accuracy.
- Compare with 'harsh' and 'rough' to sharpen nuance.
- Memorize the memory image of a horse to recall the feel of rough sound.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'hoarse' mean?
A.Feeling very tired
B.Having a rough or harsh voice
C.Being very happy
D.Looking very clean
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correctly used sentence featuring the word 'hoarse'.
A.After cheering all night, my voice became hoarse.
B.She felt hoarse after eating too much candy.
C.The quiet library made him feel hoarse.
D.His hoarse laughter filled the room.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'hoarse'?
A.Soft
B.Raspy
C.Clear
D.Bright
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hoarse'?
A.Smooth
B.Rough
C.Loud
D.Harsh
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario related to having a hoarse voice?
A.After giving a speech, she was thrilled with the applause.
B.After the game, he couldn't speak clearly due to his hoarse voice.
C.She called her friend to share exciting news.
D.He woke up with a sore throat after the concert.
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