Roughly

/ˈrʌfli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a manner that is not smooth or even; in a coarse or uneven way.

The surface of the table was roughly hewn from a large piece of wood.

Approximately; not exactly.

There were roughly fifty people at the event.

In a harsh or severe manner.

He spoke roughly to the children, not realizing they were sensitive.

In a vigorous or forceful manner.

The sea was roughly choppy during the storm.

Middle English, from Old English 'ruh, 'rough' + -ly (adverbial suffix).

roughly speaking

In general or in broad terms.

rough around the edges

Incomplete or needing refinement.

rough estimate

An approximate figure that may not be precise.

rough

Having an uneven or irregular surface.

roughness

The quality of being rough or uneven.

roughly-hewn

Made roughly or unfinished.

Used to indicate a general idea without specifics.

It's roughly a thousand bucks, give or take.

Indicating a lack of care or gentleness.

He handled the package roughly and it broke.