Learn how to use the comparative “rougher” and superlative “roughest” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “roughish”?

The comparative form of “roughish” is “rougher”.

Example

The waves became rougher as the storm approached.

Example

His handwriting is rougher than mine.

What is the superlative form of “roughish”?

The superlative form of “roughish” is “roughest”.

Example

Among all the roads, this one is the roughest.

Example

Her voice is known for being the roughest in the band.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with roughish, rougher, and roughest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more roughish' and 'most roughish' are not commonly used because they sound awkward. Instead, rougher and roughest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Roughish does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: RoughishRougher Superlative: RoughishRoughest

Expressions with similar meanings to “rougher”

Used to describe something that is rough in texture or quality

Example

The coarser sandpaper is better for removing paint.

Used to describe something that has a rough or gritty texture

Example

The grittier side of the sponge is good for scrubbing stubborn stains.

A slightly formal way of expressing increased roughness or toughness

Example

The more rugged terrain requires a sturdy pair of hiking boots.

Expressions with similar meanings to “roughest”

Similar to roughest, this emphasizes roughness in texture or quality

Example

The coarsest sandpaper is used for heavy-duty sanding.

Used to describe something that has the roughest or grittiest texture

Example

The grittiest part of the sidewalk is where it hasn't been repaired.

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of roughness or toughness

Example

The most rugged mountains are found in remote regions.

Using than with comparative “rougher”

When using the comparative form rougher to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "His handwriting is rougher than mine." Here, than is used to show that the roughness of 'his' handwriting is greater than the roughness of 'mine'.

How can I use this expression in context?

“rougher” and “roughest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Weather

    The storm made the sea rougher than usual.

    The storm made the sea rougher than usual.

  • 2Textures

    The roughest sandpaper is used for heavy-duty sanding.

    The roughest sandpaper is used for heavy-duty sanding.

  • 3Voices

    Her voice is known for being the roughest in the band.

    Her voice is known for being the roughest in the band.

  • 4Terrains

    The most rugged mountains are found in remote regions.

    The most rugged mountains are found in remote regions.

  • 5Handwriting

    His handwriting is rougher than mine.

    His handwriting is rougher than mine.

Related idioms and phrases

Rough around the edges

Describing someone or something that is not perfect or refined

Example

Although he's talented, his performance was a bit rough around the edges.

Diamond in the rough

Referring to someone or something that has potential but is not yet polished or fully developed

Example

She may seem shy, but she's a diamond in the rough with great potential.

Tough as nails

Describing someone who is strong, resilient, or unyielding

Example

Despite facing many challenges, she remains tough as nails.

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