Rough

Rough is an important adjective. It has different meanings which branch from its most physical meaning: rough is the opposite of smooth. In this photo, we see rough marble, marble that hasn't been polished and made smooth. The surface has a rough texture.

We can extend this meaning to describe situations or experiences. When they're not smooth or easy, it means we have some problems, and we can say that the day was rough, the meeting was rough, etc.

Rough can also describe a violent situation: The protest turned rough and three people were hurt. This means that people were physically violent. If a person is rough, it usually means that he or she can be violent.

Finally, we use rough to describe something which isn't exact. A rough estimate doesn't tell what the precise amount will be, but more or less. For example: can you give me a rough estimate on how much the repairs will cost?

The pronunciation of rough sounds like ruff.

To make the comparative and superlative forms of the adjective: rougher, roughest

The adverb is roughly and the noun form is roughness.