Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a rough image
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a rough image" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an image that is not clear, detailed, or polished, often implying that it is a preliminary or unrefined version of a visual representation. Example: "The artist presented a rough image of his concept before finalizing the design."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
Mr. Michaels embraced a rough image of the magazine, and himself.
News & Media
Sonar scans done at a safe distance of 10 metres create a rough image known as a data-point cloud.
News & Media
But now an ordinary cell phone features a video camera of a quality similar to that of the highest-grade professional-level video cameras of a decade ago, which means that the default of low-budget filmmaking is no longer a rough image but a smooth one.
News & Media
First, a probabilistic support vector machine (SVM) is applied as a rough image quality evaluator.
The concept and performance of each GF were discussed and compared to present a rough image of their superiority.
Science
Borrow or buy a wig to see if long hair suits you, or try an online service that can help you make a rough image of your face with a particular haircut on it.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
The singer, actor and model Tyrese courts a rougher image: he is best known for his role in the film "Baby Boy," with Snoop Dogg.
News & Media
Different degrees in roughness result in different perceptibility because while it is difficult for the human eyes to identify the subtle changes in a highly rough image, it is easy to identify such changes in a smooth image.
Different degrees in roughness result in different perceptibility because while it is difficult for naked eyes to identify the subtle changes in a highly rough image, it is easy to identify those changes in a smooth image [8 11].
Many investment banks have spent recent years trying to shake a rough, uncouth image developed during the 1990's, when suits filed against Merrill Lynch Salomon Smith Barneyy, now a unit of Citigroup; and smaller brokers often brought the details of life on the trading floors into the open.
News & Media
They don't all have expert technical skills, but they have a passionate desire to reshape technology in their own rough image.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing the initial stages of a project, use "a rough image" to convey that the visual is not yet finalized. For example: "The architect presented a rough image of the building's facade."
Common error
Avoid using "a rough image" when a more precise description of the image's specific flaws is possible. Instead of simply saying "a rough image", consider specifying whether it's blurry, pixelated, or lacks detail.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a rough image" functions as a noun phrase, where "rough" modifies the noun "image". As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and used to describe an image that lacks refinement or detail.
Frequent in
News & Media
40%
Science
40%
Wiki
20%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a rough image" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe an unrefined or preliminary visual. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. Although not extremely common, it's a versatile phrase for conveying the imperfect or initial state of an image. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific descriptor would be more informative. Alternatives such as "a crude picture" or "a blurry photograph" may offer greater clarity depending on the context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a crude picture
Emphasizes the lack of sophistication or precision in the image.
a blurry photograph
Focuses on the lack of sharpness and clarity in the image.
an indistinct depiction
Highlights the lack of clear definition or recognizable features.
a vague representation
Underscores the lack of specific details or accurate portrayal.
a sketchy drawing
Suggests a preliminary or unfinished quality to the image.
a pixelated rendering
Highlights the blocky and low-resolution quality of the image.
a coarse visual
Emphasizes the lack of smoothness or refinement in the image.
a primitive illustration
Suggests a basic or unsophisticated style of image creation.
a rudimentary sketch
Highlights the basic and undeveloped nature of the image.
an unfinished draft
Focuses on the incomplete or preliminary stage of the image.
FAQs
What does "a rough image" mean?
The phrase "a rough image" refers to an image that is not clear, detailed, or polished, often implying that it's a preliminary or unrefined visual representation.
How can I use "a rough image" in a sentence?
You might say, "The sonar scans created "a rough image" of the seabed" or "The cell phone created "a smooth one", not "a rough image"".
What are some alternatives to "a rough image"?
You can use alternatives like "a crude picture", "a blurry photograph", or "an indistinct depiction" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to use "a rough image" in formal writing?
Yes, "a rough image" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing preliminary or unrefined visuals, as demonstrated by its use in news media and scientific publications.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested