First, I think you understand all these terms when you've heard a lot of mics and spend a good deal of time contemplating the differences. To someone who doesn't know there is a difference between mics, these words doesn't mean anything.
I agree regarding "smooth", I wouldn't say smooth has much to do with raw or in your face (at least not in my vocabulary). If you listen to say a Royer R121 and compare it to an AKG C1000, you will know what a smooth top end means (it's the Royer that has it
) - the top is there, but it's not pointy, but rather gentle, silky...and smooth.
Of course, pretty much any mic sounds smooth compared to a C1000.
Raw/in your face means more like a strong midrange to me.
I must say that after having gathered some listening experience, and also learned what people on these forums that have a taste that is similar to mine, I've made some good purchases soley based on recommendation.
Cheers,
Henrik