rough-hewn
rough-hewn — adjective
1. describes things like timber or rock that have been cut into a rough form with a
describes things like timber or rock that have been cut into a rough form with a tool, leaving an uneven surface that has not been made smooth.
The dining table was made from rough-hewn oak planks that still carried axe marks.
rough-hewn + material (wood, stone, timber)
Visitors admired the rough-hewn granite blocks that formed the old harbour wall.
Daichi used rough-hewn timber to build a simple but sturdy garden shed.
The sculptor chose rough-hewn marble for the monument to give it a raw, emotional feel.
Sade rested her hand on the rough-hewn surface of the bench and felt every groove.
- unfinished
broader term; can describe any surface not given a final coat, not just cut materials
- unpolished
focuses on the absence of a glossy or smooth finish; used for stone, wood, metal
- rustic
suggests a pleasing country-style roughness, whereas rough-hewn is more literal
用法筆記
Often used of traditional building materials — oak beams, stone walls, granite blocks — where the maker deliberately leaves the surface unfinished for a rustic effect.
2. describes a person whose character, appearance, or way of behaving is direct and
describes a person whose character, appearance, or way of behaving is direct and without polished manners — often suggesting honesty or strength beneath a gruff exterior.
Despite his rough-hewn manner, Henry was gentle with children and animals.
rough-hewn + abstract noun (manner, appearance, charm)
Liam's rough-hewn appearance surprised the staff at the interview.
The old fisherman was a rough-hewn man who spoke in short, blunt sentences.
Saira's rough-hewn honesty sometimes offended people, but everyone knew she meant well.
Adina was drawn to the old captain's rough-hewn charm, so different from the men she met at work.
- gruff
implies a rough or harsh voice and manner, often with a good heart beneath
- unpolished
suggests a person lacking social training or refinement
- blunt
focuses on direct, sometimes tactless speech rather than overall character
- uncouth
stronger and more negative; implies awkward, rude, or unpleasant behaviour
- polished
smooth and refined in manner and behaviour
- sophisticated
showing worldly knowledge and refined taste
用法筆記
This sense is nearly always used approvingly or affectionately — it suggests unpolished sincerity rather than deliberate rudeness. The person is straightforward, not cruel.