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Wordabulary

grating

Pronunciation
Adjective C1 Advanced

Quick answer

Unpleasant and irritating, especially describing a sound or a person's manner.

"The grating sound of chalk on the blackboard made everyone wince."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

irritating harsh

Antonyms

soothing pleasant

Usage notes

Most often collocates with "sound," "voice," or "noise".

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "The _____ sound of chalk on the blackboard made everyone wince."

Answer: grating

In your own words, what does "grating" mean?

Unpleasant and irritating, especially describing a sound or a person's manner.

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