Asperity (Noun)

Sentence with Context:

I had never previously realised that each cathedral has its own colour scheme. But as Clive pointed out with characteristic asperity, the church has failed to cash in on the implications. “Every time I turn on the TV” he grumbled “I hear someone saying football is the new religion. So why can’t religion become the new football?”

Source: www.theguardian.com

Veteran CNN commentator Jack Cafferty is renowned for his grumpy gruffness. That’s part of his appeal. But a recent rant on China went well beyond the normal bounds of middle-aged asperity, provoking howls of protest on the internet and a lawsuit alleging “serious spiritual and psychological injury” to the Chinese people.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Having known him on and off over the years, since he came to the Scotsman as a young man to work as an advertising executive, I reject with asperity the notion that he is some sort of amiable Lord Emsworth more interested in his garden than in the real world of politics. In his political career he has served with distinction as a Minister and rebounded from defeat with modest grace.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Meaning: Harsh tone or manner; Harsh conditions or qualities

Synonyms

Harshness, Sharpness, Roughness, Severity, Acerbity, Astringency, Bitterness, Acrimony, Virulence, Sarcasm, Gruffness, Tartness, Cattiness

Antonyms

Mildness, Gentleness, Tenderness, Softness, Sensitivity, Warmth, Compassion, Civility, Cordiality, Courtesy, Geniality, Graciousness, Politeness, Tactfulness

Mnemonic (Memory Aid): How To Remember?

Imagine the personal secretary of a top boss. Her tone is sharp and she does not listen to anybody but the boss. Her standard statements start with the phrase: “As per…“. Remember the word “Asperity” thus: AS + PER + IT + Y. Guess the name of the personal secretary. Yes, it Mme. Asperity. She is harsh with a sharp tone.

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