abrasive (adjective) – 1. (of a substance or material) capable of polishing or cleaning a hard surface by rubbing or grinding 2. showing little concern for the feelings of others; harsh

(Pronounced uh-bray-sihv)

To remember the definition of the word abrasive (adjective), use the following mnemonic:

It takes a brave child to clean this expensive (abrasive) car with a substance capable of polishing the surface. If you damage it, your mum will be very harsh with you.

1. Examples of abrasive (adjective) in a sentence (material)

He used the abrasive fabric to sand the wood.

The abrasive label on the back of his shirt was rubbing his neck.

She polished the diamond with an abrasive material, it really made it shine.

2. Examples of abrasive (adjective) in a sentence (harsh)

Her abrasive personality clashed with the rest of the office.

His children thought he was abrasive, but the rest of the town thought he was very kind.

Headmasters always used to be so abrasive.