roughly like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "roughly like this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate an approximation or a general idea of how something should look or be done. Example: "The diagram should be arranged roughly like this to illustrate the concept clearly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

And it sounds roughly like this: Neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeer.

The Guardian - Travel

The story goes roughly like this.

The Guardian - Books

One scene went roughly like this.

The New York Times - Books

The process of deduction goes roughly like this.

Independent

The thought process went, roughly, like this: "Rhino"!

The New Yorker

It goes roughly like this: Give a few V.C.'s access to the technology deals.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Until now, it has been generally thought that Mr. Oizo (pronounced roughly like "oiseau") was a stage name for a French producer named Quentin Dupieux.

The New Yorker

Joe's mother had spotted the ad, which said, roughly, "Likes to dance".

The New York Times - Health

This would make them roughly like the competency tests universities administer to entering classes.

The New York Times

(There is no official video for "Danger" available on YouTube, and this live performance sounds only roughly like the impossible bassy and rich original recording.

The New Yorker

Fever Ray sounds roughly like The Knife with the party music taken out, though this is an almost meaningless distinction.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing examples, use "roughly like this" to preface them, making it clear that the example is not exact but serves as a general illustration. This helps avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "roughly like this" when a precise description or measurement is available. Using it in such cases can undermine your credibility and introduce unnecessary ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "roughly like this" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It qualifies the manner in which something occurs, suggesting an approximation or a general similarity, rather than an exact correspondence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "roughly like this" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate approximation or general similarity. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals it's grammatically correct and commonly employed, particularly in news and media contexts. While it's generally acceptable, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing. Remember to use this phrase when you want to provide a general idea without strict precision, and avoid it when accuracy is paramount. The analysis of the examples confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approximately like this

Replaces "roughly" with "approximately", indicating a similar level of imprecision.

similar to this

Uses a more direct comparison, focusing on the similarity rather than the approximation.

something like this

Indicates a resemblance without specifying the degree of precision.

in this general manner

Replaces the specific demonstrative with a more formal expression of manner.

more or less like this

Emphasizes the inexact nature of the comparison.

to this effect

Highlights the overall result or impression being similar.

along these lines

Focuses on the direction or path being similar.

in a similar fashion

Indicates a resemblance in the way something is done.

comparable to this

Highlights the ability to draw a comparison.

of this kind

Refers to a general category or type.

FAQs

How can I use "roughly like this" in a sentence?

Use "roughly like this" to introduce an approximation or a simplified explanation. For instance, "The process works "roughly like this": first, you gather data; then, you analyze it."

What phrases are similar to "roughly like this"?

Similar phrases include "approximately like this", "something like this", and "similar to this". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "roughly like this" in formal writing?

While "roughly like this" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "to this effect" or "in this general manner" in academic or professional contexts to maintain a more serious tone.

What's the difference between "roughly like this" and "exactly like this"?

"Roughly like this" indicates an approximation, suggesting some variation is possible. "Exactly like this", on the other hand, implies a precise and identical match with no room for deviation.