Coarse vs. Course: Rough or Path?

The Difference

• Coarse = rough in texture; crude or vulgar
• Course = a path, direction, or series of lessons; also “of course”

Using Coarse

“Coarse” describes texture or crudeness:

• “Use coarse salt for this recipe.” ✓
• “The fabric felt coarse against her skin.” ✓
• “His coarse language offended the guests.” ✓
• “Coarse sandpaper removes paint quickly.” ✓

Using Course

“Course” has several meanings:

As a path or direction:

• “The ship changed course.” ✓
• “Stay the course.” ✓

As a class or program:

• “I enrolled in a photography course.” ✓
• “The course lasts six weeks.” ✓

As a part of a meal:

• “The main course was excellent.” ✓

In the phrase “of course”:

• “Of course I’ll help you.” ✓

As a golf course or racecourse:

• “The golf course was challenging.” ✓

Memory Trick

• Coarse = think “coarse oars” (rough wooden oars)
• Course = think “course of action” (a path forward)

The Easy Test

If you can replace it with “rough,” use coarse. Otherwise, use course.