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rough

Pronunciation: [rʌf]

Word

Learn how to use rough in a sentence: 12 audio examples across 4 meanings.

Context: “texture”

(adjective) when something has a surface that is not smooth. For example, a rough rock feels bumpy and can hurt your hand if you touch it.

Example

The rough surface of the bark made it hard to climb the tree.

Example

The table was not rough; it was very smooth and shiny.

Example

Does the sandpaper feel rough or smooth to you?

Context: “behavior”

(adjective) when someone is not gentle or kind. If a person is rough, they might say mean things or act aggressively.

Example

He has a rough exterior but is very kind on the inside.

Example

She was never rough with her little brother; she always treated him gently.

Example

Why was he so rough when talking to his friends?

Context: “conditions”

(adjective) when situations are difficult or not easy to handle. For example, a rough time in life can mean something challenging is happening.

Example

She went through a rough patch but came out stronger.

Example

His life was not rough at all; everything was going well for him.

Example

Have you ever had a rough day at school?

Context: “prepare”

(verb) when you make a rough version of something, like a sketch or plan that is just the beginning and not detailed. It's like drawing a quick picture before making it look nice.

Example

The artist roughed in the shapes before adding colors and details.

Example

She didn't rough out her ideas; she drew everything perfectly on the first try.

Example

Who can rough out the design for the project quickly?

How to pronounce rough

Pronunciation: [rʌf]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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