rough coastline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rough coastline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a coastline that is rugged, uneven, or has many cliffs and rocky areas. Example: "The hikers were captivated by the stunning views of the rough coastline as they made their way along the trail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He often finds himself ambling through undeveloped fields, cobblestoned streets and rough coastline trails.

The New York Times

The picture of the1950s showed mainly semi-openfield field systems and nucleated villages that extended through valleys in the lowland, with banks in rough coastline sectors.

Landscape and Urban Planning

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Then there are the plein-air watercolors you did of the rough and rocky coastline of Maine.

Huffington Post

After a windswept morning's walk along the bluff trail above the rocky coastline, where seals loll in foamy coves and plucky pelagic cormorants dive in the roughest water, we got back in the car and headed for Mission San Miguel Archángel.

The New York Times - Magazine

When the sea is rough, the coastline is truly wild, with waves crashing along the cliffs or rolling into the sandy beaches.

The Guardian

These communities were separated by rough ocean waters, unpredictable Atlantic storms and rocky coastlines.

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports

The land here is more arid, the surf rougher, and the coastline mostly craggy coral and uninhabited.

The New York Times - Travel

Squalls off the eastern coast of Florida generated rough seas along coastlines, injuring a number of people.

Wikipedia

The storm produced rough surf along the coastline from Florida to North Carolina, causing beach erosion and some damage.

Wikipedia

Additionally, the precursor disturbance produced rough seas along the coastlines, which resulting in the sinking of 12 sailing vessels.

Wikipedia

Authorities ordered small boats and ferries not to venture out along the country's eastern coastline, warning of rough seas and torrential rain and wind that could whip up four-metre waves.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a coastline, consider using "rough coastline" to convey a sense of ruggedness and natural beauty. Be specific by adding details about the types of rocks, vegetation, or wave action that contribute to its character.

Common error

Avoid using "rough coastline" as a generic descriptor for any coastline. Instead, vary your language to reflect the unique characteristics of the specific location, using terms like "rocky cliffs", "jagged shores", or "windswept bluffs".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rough coastline" primarily functions as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines an adjective ("rough") with a noun ("coastline") to depict a specific type of coastal landscape. Ludwig confirms that this combination is standard English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rough coastline" effectively describes a rugged and uneven coastal area. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans across news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias, indicating its versatility. For alternative expressions, consider "rugged coast", "jagged shoreline", or "rocky coast". To enrich your writing, use "rough coastline" with detailed descriptions, and avoid overuse by varying your language to reflect the location's characteristics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rugged coast

Emphasizes the uneven and challenging nature of the coastline.

jagged shoreline

Highlights the sharp and irregular features of the shoreline.

rocky coast

Focuses on the presence of rocks as the defining feature.

rough and rocky shore

Combines two key features to provide a more descriptive alternative.

wild coastline

Emphasizes the untamed and natural character of the coastline.

uneven coastline

Highlights the lack of uniformity in the coastal landscape.

craggy coast

Focuses on the rough, uneven surface with sharp, projecting rocks.

broken coastline

Suggests a coastline that is fragmented and discontinuous.

untamed shore

Highlights the natural and unmanaged quality of the coastline.

storm-battered coast

Describes a coastline shaped by the effects of severe weather.

FAQs

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

You can use "rough coastline" to describe a rugged and uneven coastal area, such as: "The hikers enjoyed the views of the rough coastline." or "The ship struggled to navigate the rough coastline during the storm."

What are some alternatives to "rough coastline"?

Alternatives include "rugged coast", "jagged shoreline", or "rocky coast", depending on the specific features you want to emphasize.

Is "rough coastline" a formal or informal term?

"Rough coastline" is generally considered a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What distinguishes a "rough coastline" from a typical coastline?

A "rough coastline" implies a ruggedness, unevenness, and often a dramatic landscape with features like cliffs and rocky outcroppings. In contrast, a typical coastline might be smooth, sandy, or more gently sloping.