Definition
刺耳 (cì'ěr) specifically describes sounds that are harsh, grating, and unpleasant to the ear. While 尖 (jiān) and 尖锐 (jiān ruì) can also mean 'piercing' or 'shrill' for sounds, 刺耳 emphasizes the negative, jarring quality that irritates the listener.
adjective
ear-piercinggratingshrill (of sound)
Examples
- 刺耳。Zhè zhǒng jīqì fāchū de shēngyīn fēicháng cì ěr.The sound this machine makes is very ear-piercing.
- 刺耳，。Tā shuōhuà de shēngyīn hěn cì ěr, ràng rén bù shūfu.His speaking voice is very grating and makes people uncomfortable.
- 刺耳，。Bié fàng nàme cì ěr de yīnyuè, huì yǐngxiǎng línjū.Don't play such ear-piercing music; it will disturb the neighbors.
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