The spelling of the word "more crossgrained" can be tricky due to the use of the unusual word "crossgrained." To help with pronunciation, the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can be used to break it down. The first syllable "cross" is pronounced as /krɒs/ with a hard "k" sound and a short "o" sound. The second syllable "grained" sounds like /ɡreɪnd/ with a long "a" sound and a soft "g" sound. Put together, "crossgrained" is pronounced as /krɒsɡreɪnd/. The addition of "more" makes it /mɔːrkrosɡreɪnd/.
More crossgrained refers to a state or condition where someone or something is exhibiting a greater degree of stubbornness, contrary behavior, or resistance to conformity or compliance. The term "crossgrained" is derived from woodworking, where it refers to the irregular pattern of wood grain that makes it difficult to cut or shape. Similarly, when applied to people or objects, being crossgrained suggests a similar sense of difficulty or opposition.
When someone is described as more crossgrained, it means they possess an increased level of obstinacy or contrariness compared to others. They may have a natural inclination to oppose or challenge ideas, suggestions, or orders. This behavior can stem from principles, preferences, or simply a disposition to go against the grain. Such individuals may resist conforming to societal norms or following widely accepted practices.
The term is also used to describe objects that are difficult to work with due to their resistance to manipulation or adaptation. For instance, a piece of wood with a more crossgrained texture would be troublesome to carve or construct. In a broader sense, an object that is more crossgrained may resist alterations or adjustments, making it challenging to use or modify.
In summary, describing someone or something as more crossgrained implies a heightened level of stubbornness, contrariness, or resistance to conformity, similar to the difficulty faced when working with wood that possesses an irregular grain pattern.
The phrase "more crossgrained" is a combination of two separate words: "more" and "crossgrained".
The word "more" is an adverb that signifies a greater amount or degree of something. It comes from the Old English word "māra", which means "greater" or "larger".
The term "crossgrained" is an adjective that typically describes a person's temperament or behavior as being contrary, stubborn, or difficult to handle. The origin of this word dates back to the 16th century, where "cross" refers to the act of going against, opposing, or conflicting. The term "grained" here is derived from the Old English word "grein", meaning "fiber" or "texture". The expression "crossgrained" thus suggests a rough and resistant texture, signifying a challenging or unyielding disposition.