Speaking harshly is a way of expressing oneself in a very direct and often aggressive manner. The term can be broken down into three words: RASP, SNAP, and SNARL. RASP is a harsh, grating sound made by vibrating the vocal cords. SNAP is to make a sudden, sharp sound or movement. SNARL is to speak or growl in an angry or menacing way. Together, these words describe speaking harshly, which is often done in an aggressive or hostile manner.