# rough out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rough-out
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to make a quick, simple version of a plan or drawing before you add all the details.

For teachers: to produce a preliminary sketch, draft, or outline of something, focusing on the general structure rather than specific details. Transitive — requires a direct object.

## Examples

- I usually rough out a quick sketch before I start painting.
- Before writing the full report, she decided to rough out the main points on a napkin during lunch.
- The architect spent the afternoon roughing out the initial floor plans to ensure the client's core requirements were met before proceeding to technical specifications.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I roughed out of the plan." but "I roughed out the plan." — Do not use 'of' after 'out'; the object follows the particle directly.

## Usage notes

- This phrasal verb is transitive and allows the object to be placed between the verb and the particle.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'flesh out' (adding detail) to help students understand the workflow of planning and execution.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.