Course vs Coarse
What’s the difference between them?
Course
Meaning:
A course is a sequence of classes or lectures in a particular subject, especially one forming part of a university degree.
Examples:
1. I'm enrolled in a course on basic mechanics.
2. I'm going to have to take a crash course in HTML before I can complete this project.
3. The course of the river has changed significantly over the past few years.
Coarse
Meaning:
Having a rough, irregular surface; not fine or smooth.
Examples:
1. The sandpaper was too coarse for this delicate job.
2. The coarse fabric made me itch.
3. The coarse hair on the cat's back was rough to the touch.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Course
1. Program
2. Class
3. Journey
4. Trail
5. Educational Pursuit
1. Detour
2. Reversal
3. Regress
4. Retreat
5. Deviate
Coarse
1. Rough
2. Course
3. Crude
4. Vulgar
5. Unrefined
1. Fine
2. Refined
3. Delicate
4. Smooth
5. Polished
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Course", "Coarse".
1. To remember the difference between 'course' and 'coarse,' try using the mnemonic phrase 'Course is for learning, and Coarse is for touching.'
2. When referring to a class, use the term 'course' (e.g. 'I'm taking a course in biology')
3. When referring to a texture, use the term 'coarse' (e.g. 'The fabric has a coarse texture')
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'course'?
Course is typically used when talking about a sequence of classes or lectures, usually in the context of a university degree. It could also be used when referring to a path or route, such as a bike course.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'coarse'?
Coarse is typically used to refer to something that has a rough or irregular surface. For example, it can be used to describe a fabric that is rough to the touch, or a texture that is not smooth.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, these words have similar pronunciation, so you have pay attention to the context to use the correct word.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake is using the word course when referring to something that is rough or coarse. People also sometimes use the word coarse to refer to a series of classes, which should actually be course.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I think I may have chosen the wrong __________ of fabric for this project; its really __________.
2. Im planning on taking a __________ in computer programming at the local college.
3. We had to adjust our hiking plans when the path became too __________ to walk over.
4. My professor always likes to start our classes by reviewing the material from the previous __________.
5. Im always surprised by how __________ the fabric on my couch is.
6. The __________ was divided into three sections, each with its own set of assignments.
1. Course, Coarse
Explanation: Course means a type of fabric or material, and Coarse means rough or harsh. In this sentence, the speaker is saying they chose the wrong type of fabric for this project and that it is rough or harsh in texture.
2. Course
Explanation: Course means a type of academic program or study. In this sentence, the speaker is saying that they are planning on taking a course at the local college.
3. Coarse
Explanation: Coarse means rough or harsh. In this sentence, the speaker is saying that they had to adjust their hiking plans because the path became too rough or harsh to walk over.
4. Course
Explanation: Course means a type of academic program or study. In this sentence, the speaker is saying that their professor always likes to start classes by reviewing material from the previous academic program or study.
5. Coarse
Explanation: Coarse means rough or harsh. In this sentence, the speaker is saying that they are always surprised by how rough or harsh the fabric on their couch is.
6. Course
Explanation: Course means a type of academic program or study. In this sentence, the speaker is saying that the academic program or study was divided into three sections.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.