Describe words and actions that are impolite.

The idea

Rude describes impolite behaviour or the person showing it. Say rude to someone to identify who receives it.

Examples

  • His rude remark upset the guests.
  • It was rude to interrupt the speaker.
  • The customer was rude to the cashier.
  • She sent a rude message after the match.
  • They thought his gesture was rude.
  • A rude reply made the conversation harder.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.

Watch out

A direct question is not always rude: context and tone affect how it is received.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. Calling people names is ___. (rude / polite)

    Show answer or example answer

    rude

    Rude fits insulting names for people.

  2. Choose the correct option. Do not be rude ___ the waiter. (to / from)

    Show answer or example answer

    to

    To introduces the person receiving the behaviour.

  3. Choose the correct option. The child answered ___ and then apologised. (rude / rudely)

    Show answer or example answer

    rudely

    Rudely describes the way the child answered.

Use it today

Describe an impolite action and explain its effect.