English Reference
Idiom idiom

rough out


To produce (a plan, diagram etc.) in rough.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

I need to rough out a plan for the party.

CONTEXTUAL

Before you write the final report, rough out your main ideas on this piece of paper.

COMPLEX

The architect sat down to rough out the initial floor plan, ensuring the basic structure met the client's needs before adding any fine details.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    cut up rough

    To become angry; to make a fuss.

  2. 02

    have a rough time of it

    To have many problems; to have a difficult time.

  3. 03

    rough and ready

    Crude or unpolished, but still fit for use; good enough.

  4. 04

    rough around the edges

    In need of refinement; unsophisticated.

  5. 05

    rough justice

    Treatment or punishment that is not considered fair or in accordance with the law.

  6. 06

    rough patch

    A difficult or embattling period of one's life.

  7. 07

    rough sledding

    A difficult period of time.

  8. 08

    rough sleeper

    A homeless person who sleeps outdoors.

Last updated August 10, 2026