What does “Rough patch” mean?
"Rough patch" means a difficult or challenging period of time.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After losing his job, he went through a rough patch financially.
Example
Their relationship hit a rough patch after the argument.
Example
The company experienced a rough patch during the economic downturn
Is “Rough patch” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Rough patch” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Rough patch” effectively in context?
You can use "Rough Patch" to describe a difficult or challenging period of time. It implies that someone is going through a tough situation or facing obstacles. For example, if a friend is struggling with their studies, you might say, 'Don't worry, everyone goes through a rough patch. Just keep working hard and things will get better.'
- 1Financial
After losing his job, he went through a rough patch financially.
- 2Relationship
Their relationship hit a rough patch after the argument.
- 3Business
The company experienced a rough patch during the economic downturn.
Similar phrases to “Rough patch”:
Bumpy road
A period of difficulty or challenges
Example
Starting a new business can be a bumpy road, but it's worth it in the end.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Rough patch” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Rough Patch" is unknown.
Is “Rough patch” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Rough Patch" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe challenging periods in various aspects of life, such as relationships, finances, or work.
What tone does “Rough patch” have?
"Rough Patch" conveys a tone of empathy and understanding. It acknowledges that everyone faces difficult times and encourages resilience and perseverance.
Can “Rough patch” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Rough Patch" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes challenging periods in a relatable way. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, colleagues, as well as in professional contexts.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She's going through a rough patch right now, so let's offer her support.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm going through a rough patch' to imply a difficult period in one's life.
