The words grated like two chunks of sandstone rubbing together.

Harsh words grated across the speaking mesh.

Though the words grated within him he spoke them smoothly, still fearing the stinging force of the steel collar.

The thought of Tom's trouble came to him, and he realized that his words might grate on the feelings of his companion.

Somehow the word grated; somehow his sub-adrenals began to pulse.

In the gentle silence of a summer's day spoken words grated and she didn't try it again.

The last word grated on me; but how could I remonstrate!

It may not be proof they were - Black Ajah" - the words grated from her mouth - "but few believe otherwise.

The words grated on his senses, set off warning bells of paranoia.

Those three words uttered with revulsion had grated on Stephen.