grosero

Grosero is a Spanish adjective used to describe behavior, language, or people that are rude, vulgar, or coarse. It connotes a lack of refinement or courtesy and is generally applied in negative contexts. The feminine form is grosera, and the related noun grosería refers to rude acts or crude language. Phrases commonly found in usage include lenguaje grosero (coarse language), comportamiento grosero (rude behavior), and gesto grosero (rude gesture).

Etymology and range of meaning: grosero derives from Latin grossus (thick, coarse) and entered Spanish with the sense of something unrefined or crude. Over time, the term broadened to cover both vulgar speech and uncivil conduct. While always negative in most Spanish-speaking regions, some contexts differentiate between outright disrespect and blunt, forthright speech, the latter not necessarily intentional harm.

Usage notes: grosero can describe a person (un hombre grosero) or a characteristic (un comentario grosero). It is often paired with nouns related to manners or speech, such as insultos groseros or humor grosero. In many Latin American and Iberian contexts, grosería—the noun form—refers specifically to rude behavior or crude expressions.

Synonyms and contrasts: common synonyms include rudo, brusco, maleducado, vulgar, and tosco. Antonyms include cortés, educado, refinado, and pulcro. The term carries a strong moral or social judgment about lack of civility and may be considered offensive in formal settings.