The term "harsh to the ear" can be interchanged with several synonyms, depending on the context and subject matter at hand. For instance, a sound that is unpleasantly loud or shrill can be described as piercing or grating. An annoying, offensive or unbearable noise can be referred to as cacophonous or discordant. Alternatively, sounds that are rough, scratchy, or jarring to the ear can be described as raspy, strident or screeching. Noises that disturb the peace, cause discomfort or irritability can be described as jarring, noisy, or obnoxious. All in all, the use of various words to describe sounds shows the versatility and richness of the English language.