a rough surface

USAGE SUMMARY

"a rough surface" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe the texture or feel of a physical object or surface. Example: The wall was covered in a rough surface, making it difficult to paint smoothly.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On a rough surface the TT's ride is comfortable, at least for a sports car.

The New York Times

On a rough surface, the SHO's body impresses with its quiver-free solidity.

The New York Times

modeling of a rough surface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

All images exhibit a rough surface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The area of abrasion showed avulsion and a rough surface.  .

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

A rough surface is one that is solid, has hardness, and a certain uneven shape.

SEP

Like the raw sago waste, SHP exhibited a rough surface morphology with a larva-like structure.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

The crystals exhibit a rough surface under cross-polarized light (Figure 6a).

Nanoscale Research Letters

The crowns' surface of abrasion revealed avulsion and a rough surface under SEM.

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

High magnification SEM image of individual CuCl nanocubes shows a rough surface.

Nano-Micro Letters

It is interesting that the villiform-type Co3O4 has a rough surface.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "a rough surface", consider the degree and type of roughness. Is it slightly uneven, or significantly rugged? Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a rough surface" without specifying the cause or effect of the roughness. For example, instead of 'The material had a rough surface', try 'The material had a rough surface due to improper sanding, which made it difficult to paint'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a rough surface" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective 'rough' modifies the noun 'surface'. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. It serves to describe a physical attribute of an object or material.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

10%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a rough surface" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the texture of an object. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently across various contexts, especially in scientific and technical writing. While generally neutral in tone, the specific connotation can be refined by using more descriptive alternatives like "coarse" or "uneven", depending on the context. The phrase's utility stems from its ability to convey descriptive information about a surface’s characteristics, influencing its interaction with other objects or its overall functionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an uneven texture

Focuses on the lack of uniformity in the texture, rather than just the roughness.

a coarse texture

Emphasizes the graininess or lack of fine detail of the surface.

an irregular surface

Highlights the lack of regularity in the surface's form.

a bumpy texture

Suggests protrusions and indentations, making the surface uneven.

a jagged edge

Specifically refers to a sharp and uneven edge, not a broad surface.

an abrasive exterior

Conveys a surface that is capable of causing friction or wear.

a textured plane

Highlights the presence of intentional or designed surface patterns.

a scabrous facade

Implies a surface covered with scabs or scales, more specific and potentially negative.

a granular layer

Suggests a surface composed of small particles or grains.

a crude finish

Emphasizes the lack of refinement or processing in the surface's preparation.

FAQs

How can I describe "a rough surface" more precisely?

Consider using more descriptive terms like "coarse", "uneven", or "textured" depending on the specific type of roughness. For example, a rock might have a coarse surface, while a poorly paved road has an "uneven surface".

What materials are typically described as having "a rough surface"?

Common examples include concrete, unfinished wood, sandpaper, and certain types of stone. The roughness is often due to the material's composition or the way it was processed.

Is there a technical term for measuring "a rough surface"?

Yes, surface roughness is often quantified using parameters like Ra (average roughness) or Rz (maximum height of the profile). These measurements are used in manufacturing and engineering to control surface quality.

How does "a rough surface" affect adhesion?

Generally, "a rough surface" increases adhesion because it provides more surface area for bonding. This is why adhesives often work better on surfaces that are not perfectly smooth. However, extremely rough surfaces can sometimes weaken adhesion by creating stress points.