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.

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.