rough ending

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rough ending" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a conclusion or finale that is abrupt, unsatisfactory, or lacking polish. Example: "The movie had a rough ending that left many viewers feeling unsatisfied with the resolution of the plot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This is a pretty rough ending for the fashion site, which joins a host of other Yahoo startup acquisitions that were mismanaged or ultimately just mistakes.

TechCrunch

"It was a pretty rough ending," he recalled.

The New York Times - Sports

"We were together for seven years, we had a rough ending, but we're good now".

Huffington Post

With the rough ending of a rather dramatic tenure at HP, getting a new large-cap CEOship was not going to be easy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Mickelson's trip through the rough ended in a double bogey on the par-5 No. 7. His scorecard is starting to look like a color wheel: three pars, a bogey, a double and two birdies.

The New York Times

Ending up here indicates a rough end, too.

The Guardian

"We might have caught the rough end of the draw, that happens," Spieth said.

The Guardian - Sport

"Everyone thinks I'm getting the rough end of the stick," he told Wortham.

The New Yorker

It's a rough end to a good meal but it's easily fixed.

The New York Times

Hollywood called his heartthrob status "a joke", adding: "I'm an old man from the rough end of town.

Independent

"Everyone thinks I'm getting the rough end of the stick, but I don't feel that," Mr. Jones said.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rough ending", consider the context. It implies more than just a simple end; it suggests that the conclusion was difficult, unpleasant, or problematic in some way.

Common error

While "rough ending" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal writing. More precise language, such as "difficult conclusion" or "problematic resolution", may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rough ending" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "rough" modifies the noun "ending". According to Ludwig, this is a correct and usable English phrase that describes an abrupt, unsatisfactory, or unpolished conclusion. Examples show it often describing events, relationships, or projects that conclude in a difficult or unpleasant manner.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rough ending" is a grammatically sound and understandable phrase used to describe a conclusion that is difficult, unpleasant, or problematic. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. While it appears most commonly in News & Media contexts, more formal settings might benefit from more precise language. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when choosing between "rough ending" and alternatives like "difficult conclusion" or "unpleasant finale". Despite its clarity, "rough ending" is not a very frequent expression, so use it judiciously to ensure your writing remains impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult conclusion

Changes the adjective to describe the nature of the ending, focusing on the difficulty rather than the lack of smoothness.

unsatisfying close

Highlights the lack of fulfillment or resolution at the end.

unpleasant finale

Replaces both words to convey a more negative tone related to the final event.

unfortunate conclusion

Indicates that the ending was regrettable or unlucky.

jarring finish

Emphasizes the disturbing or unsettling nature of the end.

abrupt termination

Uses more formal vocabulary to indicate a sudden and often unwelcome conclusion.

turbulent end

Conveys a sense of chaos or disturbance associated with the ending.

problematic resolution

Highlights the issues or difficulties arising from how something concluded.

challenging culmination

Emphasizes the demanding or difficult nature of reaching the end.

stormy conclusion

Suggests a conclusion marked by conflict or intense emotions.

FAQs

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

You can use "rough ending" to describe the conclusion of a movie, a relationship, or a project. For example: "The movie had a "rough ending" that left many viewers feeling unsatisfied with the resolution of the plot."

What are some synonyms for "rough ending"?

Some synonyms for "rough ending" include "difficult conclusion", "unpleasant finale", or "abrupt termination".

Is "rough ending" formal or informal?

"Rough ending" is generally considered neutral in formality, suitable for both news reporting and casual conversation. However, in highly formal or academic contexts, a more precise or sophisticated term might be preferred.

What makes an ending "rough"?

A "rough ending" typically implies that the conclusion was difficult, unpleasant, or problematic. It can also suggest that the ending was abrupt, unexpected, or lacking in resolution.