Roughly
/ˈrʌfli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn an approximate manner; not precisely.
/ˈrʌfli/
Approximately; not exactly.
The concert will roughly start in an hour.
💡 Simply: It means 'about' or 'around.' Like, if someone asks how old you are, and you don't remember exactly, you can say you're roughly 8.
👶 For kids: Means almost. Like, if you have roughly 5 cookies, you have close to 5 cookies.
More Examples
The cost will be roughly $50.
I have roughly 200 books in my library.
How It's Used
"The calculation gave us a roughly estimated value."
"I'd say the trip took roughly three hours."
In a harsh, violent, or inconsiderate way.
/ˈrʌfli/
In a harsh or violent manner.
The luggage was handled roughly during the transport.
💡 Simply: It's like doing something in a mean or unkind way. Like if you throw a ball roughly, you throw it hard.
👶 For kids: Means not nicely. If you play roughly, you might hurt someone.
More Examples
He treated her roughly during the fight.
The building was roughly designed.
How It's Used
"He was handled roughly by the guards."
"The wind treated the trees roughly during the storm."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
roughly speaking
Used to indicate that you are giving an approximate answer or opinion.
"Roughly speaking, the project should be completed in six months."
From 'rough' + '-ly'. 'Rough' comes from Old English 'ruh', meaning 'uneven' or 'coarse'. The '-ly' suffix transforms the adjective into an adverb.
The word 'roughly' has been in use since the 16th century, initially referring to actions or conditions that lack precision. The sense related to 'harshness' developed later.
Memory tip
Think of rounding numbers – you get a roughly accurate answer, but it's not exact.
Word Origin
"uneven, rough, unrefined"