Vulgar: Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide

Meaning 1：rude and offensive (vulgar)

vulgar 🔊

/ˈvʌlɡər/

adj.

Speaking or acting in a way that is rude, offensive, and shows a lack of good manners.

rude and offensive 🔊

➕

/ruːd ænd əˈfɛnsɪv/

adj.

Describing behavior, language, or actions that are rude, offensive, and show a lack of good manners or refinement.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：intermediate

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'vulgus' (common people) + '-ar'; originally 'common', later 'crude'.

💡 Mnemonic

Vulgar: 'Vul' (like 'vulgarian') + 'gar' (like 'garish') = rude and showy.

📖 Example

Making vulgar jokes at a formal dinner is completely unacceptable. 🔊 Making vulgar jokes at a formal dinner is completely unacceptable.

🔗 Collocations

vulgar language – Offensive and crude speech.

vulgar joke – A joke that is obscene or rude.

vulgar display – A showy and tasteless exhibition.

🔄 Synonyms

crude (adj.) – Lacking refinement; rough in manner.

obscene (adj.) – Offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality.

offensive (adj.) – Causing anger or annoyance; insulting.

🚫 Antonyms

refined (adj.) – Elegant and cultured in manner or style.

polite (adj.) – Having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate.

tasteful (adj.) – Showing good aesthetic judgment; appropriate and pleasing.

🌱 Derivatives

vulgarly (adv.) – In a vulgar manner.

vulgarity (n.) – The quality of being vulgar.

vulgarian (n.) – A person who is vulgar, especially one who makes a display of wealth.

📖 Cultural Story

From Latin 'vulgus' (the common people). Originally referred to the masses, later came to mean something offensive to refined taste.