as a rough patch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a rough patch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a difficult or challenging period in someone's life or a situation. Example: "After going through a rough patch in their relationship, they decided to seek counseling to improve their communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But both described the period as a rough patch in their marriage that they worked through.

The New York Times

In 1999, during what she described as "a rough patch," she was advised to try something creative.

The New York Times - Books

The commanding victory comes after a gruelling road trip that Durant described as a "rough patch", though the team won all but one game.

The Guardian - Sport

Evercore's chief executive and chairman, Roger C. Altman, described the bank's disappointing earnings as a "rough patch" and said that investment banking earnings should be expected to be a "bit lumpy," because deals in progress may not close by the time the quarter wraps up.

The New York Times

Only Mark could refer to a widespread brain tumor as a "rough patch".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

China Daily quoted analysts as predicting a rough patch after Mr. Hollande took office but "healthy and stable ties between the two countries will not change".

The New York Times

But Mr. Quinn, a former union steward and die-hard Democrat who is known simply and affectionately as L.Q., has hit a rough patch that has, for the moment, deprived Ms. Quinn of her essential political sidekick.

The New York Times

In accepting the award at a gala dinner Wednesday in New York City, McBride said the novel's protagonist, Little Onion, served as his friend during a rough patch in his life that included the death of his mother and niece and the breakup of his marriage.

Los Angeles Times

In accepting the award at  a gala dinner Wednesday in New York City, McBride said the novel's protagonist, Little Onion, served as his friend during a rough patch in his life that included the death of his mother and niece and the breakup of his marriage.

Los Angeles Times

Some businesses hit a rough patch as the Greek debt crisis arose in February.

The New York Times

The problem arose in late 2007, as Mr. Taylor was riding out a rough patch in the markets.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a rough patch" to describe a temporary period of difficulty in personal relationships, business performance, or other situations where challenges are expected to be overcome.

Common error

While acceptable, "as a rough patch" can sound colloquial in formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "a period of difficulty" or "a challenging phase" for professional or academic settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a rough patch" functions as a descriptor, typically used to characterize a period or situation. It indicates that something is currently experiencing problems or difficulties, but with the implication that this is temporary. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a rough patch" is a descriptor used to indicate that someone or something is experiencing a period of difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. The phrase appears mostly in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral formality level. When writing, consider your audience and choose more formal alternatives like "a period of difficulty" if the situation demands it. Be mindful of the potential for overuse and ensure that it accurately reflects the temporary nature of the challenges being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experiencing a difficult phase

Focuses on the experience of difficulty rather than a specific period.

going through a trying time

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the experience.

enduring a period of hardship

Highlights the aspect of suffering and resilience during a timeframe.

facing a challenging situation

Shifts the focus to a particular set of circumstances.

navigating a problematic stage

Suggests a need for careful management during this timeframe.

in the midst of adversity

Highlights the presence of unfavorable conditions.

undergoing a period of difficulty

Focuses on the process of experiencing difficulty.

contending with a tough period

Emphasizes the act of struggling with difficulties.

battling through a crisis

Suggests a more intense and critical situation.

in the throes of a setback

Highlights the immediate and impactful nature of a reverse in progress.

FAQs

How can I use "as a rough patch" in a sentence?

You can use "as a rough patch" to describe a temporary period of difficulty. For example, "The company described the recent financial losses as a rough patch, expecting a turnaround soon."

What are some alternatives to "as a rough patch"?

Some alternatives include "a difficult time", "a challenging period", or "a period of hardship".

Is it appropriate to use "as a rough patch" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "as a rough patch" might be considered too informal for academic or professional contexts. Consider more formal alternatives like "a period of instability" or "a challenging phase".

What does it mean when someone says they are going through "as a rough patch"?

It means they are experiencing a difficult or challenging period in their life or in a specific situation, implying that it is temporary and they expect things to improve.