a rough reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a rough reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is not polished or is somewhat informal in nature. Example: "I appreciate your feedback, but I was expecting a rough reply rather than a detailed analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It started with an unusually rough reply I received to an email that from my perspective hadn't been provocative.

Huffington Post

The producer sends you a rough edit, you reply with e-mailed comments, revisions are made, a second edit is sent out, and so on.

The New Yorker

When I mentioned to the desk clerk of my hotel in Visalia that I was having a rough day, she replied earnestly: "Oh, it has been a bad day.

The New York Times - Travel

Asked if Benitez was given a rough ride at Chelsea, Wenger replied: "Yes".

BBC

I said, "Frank, I have to know today!" He replied, "I'll get you the overnight ratings, which are a rough measure".

The New York Times

It was a rough, rough thing.

Independent

A rough, glittering diamond.

Independent

during a rough patch.

The New York Times - Magazine

This has been a rough, rough summer.

The Washington Post

Aronian had a rough time.

The New York Times

"It's a rough play".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a rough reply" when you want to convey that a response was not carefully considered or was delivered in a blunt manner. Be mindful of the context to avoid unintentionally causing offense.

Common error

Avoid using "a rough reply" in contexts requiring a polished or professional tone. It implies a lack of refinement that may be inappropriate in formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a rough reply" functions as a noun phrase, where 'rough' modifies 'reply'. Ludwig suggests this phrase is used to describe the quality or nature of the response.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a rough reply" describes a response that is direct and lacks polish. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct, although its frequency is rare. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, but it can also appear in Wiki and formal business contexts. When using "a rough reply", be aware of the potential for negative connotations due to its implications of bluntness. Consider if a more polite or neutral expression such as "a direct answer" or "a blunt response" might be more appropriate. Ludwig's analysis reinforces the importance of considering context when using this phrase to ensure the intended message is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a blunt response

Emphasizes directness and lack of tact.

a curt reply

Indicates a brief and unfriendly response.

a terse answer

Highlights brevity and potential curtness.

an abrupt rejoinder

Focuses on the sudden and potentially rude nature of the reply.

a sharp answer

Emphasizes the critical or biting tone of the response.

a harsh retort

Stresses the severity and possibly offensive nature of the response.

a dismissive response

Suggests the reply was intended to brush off the question or person.

a gruff response

Focuses on the low-pitched and harsh quality of the reply.

an unkind answer

Highlights the lack of empathy in the response.

a callous response

Highlights the insensitivity of the reply.

FAQs

How can I use "a rough reply" in a sentence?

You can use "a rough reply" to describe a response that is direct and perhaps not very polite. For example: "I wasn't expecting such "a rough reply" to my simple question."

What's a less harsh alternative to "a rough reply"?

If you want to soften the description, consider using phrases like "a blunt response", or "a direct answer".

Is it appropriate to use "a rough reply" in professional correspondence?

Generally, no. In professional settings, it's better to use more neutral or polite language. However, if you're describing someone else's response, it might be acceptable depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a rough reply" and "a rude reply"?

"A rude reply" is explicitly impolite. "A rough reply" implies a lack of refinement or politeness, but it might not necessarily be intended to be offensive. It could simply be direct or unpolished.