rough relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rough relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is characterized by conflict, difficulty, or emotional strain between individuals. Example: "Despite their love for each other, they often found themselves in a rough relationship filled with misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"Our relationship was a rough relationship when I was in Los Angeles, Scott said.

The New York Times - Sports

As you can see there is a rough relationship (note the different scales; unemployment is normally higher so the balance is normally negative).

The Economist

First there is normally a rough relationship between yields, currently 3.3% for ten-year Treasury bonds, and nominal GDP growth projected at around 5% a year.

The Economist

These observations are supported by the rough relationship between the amplitudes of the infrasonic and seismic signals.

Earth, Planets and Space

"Apple historically had a rough relationship with researchers," said Rich Mogull, CEO of Securosis and a security analyst who keeps tabs on iOS security.

TechCrunch

Figure 5b shows that there is a rough relationship between the effort in trapping, expressed as the number of traps set out in a given building or rooms and the number of insects caught (mostly as S. hilleri).

Heritage Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Aretha suffered through rough relationships with men, chronic weight problems and bouts of despondency.

The New York Times

After five years of songs about whiskey and outlaws and rough relationships brushed off with delight, here was something different from this group: feeling, desperation, softness.

The New York Times

Rough relationships between concentrations for coalescence restraining and molecular properties can be given (ionic strength for electrolytes, number of C-atoms in homologous series of organic compounds), but no exact equations based on a theory of coalescence.

Chemical Engineering Science

Despite years of rough relationships with the United States, including the expulsion from Caracas on Tuesday of two American military attaches who were accused of seeking to destabilize the country, there were signs that both sides were trying to put on a moderate face, at least for a day.

The New York Times

A Pisces Man usually has been through some rough relationships so it would be best for you to make him feel as loved as possible not motherly love but the type of love that would unlock his sexual fantasies, and I guarantee you he will please you like no other lover there is out there. you just need to know how to treat him like he's your one and only knight).

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "rough relationship", be specific about the nature of the difficulties. Use descriptive language to convey the specific challenges, such as communication breakdowns, frequent disagreements, or emotional distance.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a relationship is "rough" without explaining why. Provide specific examples or details to illustrate the challenges and complexities of the relationship, allowing the reader to understand the nuances involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rough relationship" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "rough" modifies the noun "relationship". It describes the quality or nature of the relationship, indicating difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous examples across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

30%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rough relationship" describes a connection marked by difficulties or challenges. As verified by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used across various contexts, including news, science, and personal narratives. Alternative phrases like "strained relationship" or "turbulent relationship" offer nuanced ways to express similar meanings. When using "rough relationship", it's best to provide specific details about the challenges involved rather than simply labeling the relationship as such. The term's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication, highlighting its versatility in describing relational dynamics. While a "rough relationship" indicates struggles, it does not always signify failure; rather, it can represent an opportunity for growth and resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turbulent relationship

Implies a relationship characterized by significant instability and emotional upheaval, suggesting a more volatile dynamic than just "rough".

strained relationship

Focuses on the tension and pressure within the relationship, emphasizing a lack of ease and harmony.

difficult relationship

Highlights the challenges and obstacles faced within the relationship, directly indicating a lack of smoothness or ease.

rocky relationship

Suggests a relationship with ups and downs, marked by periods of instability and potential conflict.

tumultuous relationship

Describes a relationship filled with chaos, strong emotions, and potentially disruptive events.

contentious relationship

Emphasizes a relationship characterized by frequent disputes and disagreements.

unstable relationship

Indicates a lack of security and predictability within the relationship, suggesting potential for sudden changes or dissolution.

uneasy alliance

Describes a relationship built on pragmatic needs rather than genuine compatibility, often marked by suspicion and a lack of trust.

tenuous connection

Suggests a fragile and easily broken bond, highlighting the vulnerability of the relationship.

flawed partnership

Emphasizes imperfections and shortcomings within the relationship, indicating inherent weaknesses in the bond.

FAQs

What does it mean to be in a "rough relationship"?

Being in a "rough relationship" typically signifies that the individuals involved are experiencing significant challenges, conflicts, or difficulties in their interactions and emotional connection. It suggests a period of strain and instability.

What can I say instead of "rough relationship"?

You can use alternatives like "strained relationship", "difficult relationship", or "tumultuous relationship" to describe a relationship facing challenges.

How can manners and politeness help in a "rough relationship"?

As noted in one of the examples, politeness can help you through the rough patches of a "relationship". Maintaining courteous interactions can de-escalate conflicts and foster a more positive communication environment.

Is a "rough relationship" always a sign of failure?

Not necessarily. While it indicates challenges, a "rough relationship" can also be an opportunity for growth and improved communication if both parties are willing to address the issues and work towards resolution. As Kim states, she's always believed in rough times in any "relationship".