on a rough level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a rough level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a general or approximate understanding of a topic without going into detailed specifics. Example: "On a rough level, we can say that the project will take about six months to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Neuroscientists can explain the brain, on a rough level, as networks of communicating cells called neurons.

The New York Times - Science

These variables mirror on a rough level the development of demands on the workers (−1 = decreasing, 0 = stable, 1 = increasing), the presence of R + D activities in the company (1 = yes, 0 = no), and the intensity of firms' innovativeness (1 = high, 0 = low).

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

When creating a mission, the team would often begin by deciding on the player's objective, after which they would produce a rough level design.

Wikipedia

Usually, these models consider decisions in the booking period on a very detailed level, whereas the resulting routing costs in the service period are approximated on a rather rough level.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

The Fusion's suspension has been revised, and it does a fabulous job on a rough road, providing a level of compliance and comfort not found in leading competitors like the somewhat stiff Honda Accord.

The New York Times

A drive on a rough road demonstrates two things.

The New York Times

They varied in details while agreeing on a rough outline.

The New York Times

The class is graded on a rough curve.

Stanford University

One bicyclist had a blowout on a rough downhill section.

Los Angeles Times

On a rough, generous estimate, it took 10 years to save 300 million lives.

Bioethics

In structure-activity relationship study (SAR), modified method, based on a rough set theory, was employed.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a rough level", ensure that the context clarifies the degree of approximation. Be upfront about the lack of detail and avoid presenting the information as definitive.

Common error

Avoid using "on a rough level" when precise data is available or necessary. Using the phrase in such cases can undermine your credibility. Instead, opt for providing exact figures or specific details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a rough level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the degree of precision or detail. Ludwig examples show it qualifying explanations or descriptions, indicating they are not highly specific.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Wiki

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase "on a rough level" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English. It serves to indicate that information is being presented in an approximate or simplified manner. While not extremely common, its usage spans across various contexts, including Science and News & Media. When using "on a rough level", it's essential to ensure the context makes the degree of approximation clear and to avoid using it when precise data is available, as doing so can undermine your credibility. Alternatives include phrases like "in broad terms" or "at a basic level", allowing writers to choose the option that best suits the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in broad terms

Focuses on generality rather than precision, emphasizing the overall picture.

at a basic level

Highlights a fundamental understanding, avoiding complexity.

in general terms

Emphasizes a non-specific, overarching description.

approximately

Directly indicates an estimated or inexact quantity or description.

roughly speaking

Signals an informal and potentially inexact statement.

on average

Suggests a typical or representative value, potentially overlooking variation.

in the ballpark

Idiomatic expression indicating an estimate that is reasonably close.

to a certain extent

Indicates a partial or limited agreement or applicability.

more or less

Implies an approximation that is not entirely precise.

by and large

Highlights a general trend or pattern with possible exceptions.

FAQs

How can I use "on a rough level" in a sentence?

Use "on a rough level" to indicate a general or approximate understanding. For example, "On a rough level, we can understand the economic model as a cycle of production and consumption."

What phrases are similar to "on a rough level"?

Alternatives include "in broad terms", "at a basic level", or "roughly speaking", all indicating a lack of precision.

Is it appropriate to use "on a rough level" in formal writing?

While acceptable, consider more precise alternatives like "in general terms" or "approximately" for a more formal tone. The best choice depends on the context and the desired level of detail.

What's the difference between "on a rough level" and "in detail"?

"On a rough level" suggests a simplified or approximate understanding, whereas "in detail" implies a thorough and comprehensive examination. They represent opposite approaches to explaining a subject.