that's rough — show sympathy
expressionB1IELTS 4+informalcommon
A warm, informal way to tell someone you understand their situation is hard and you feel for them.
Pattern: That's rough. / That's rough, mate.
In use
- You've been ill all week and still had exams? That's rough.comforting a friend
- A: My car broke down the day before the move.
B: Oh no, that's rough.listening to a problem
Common mistake
✗ That's so rough situation.
✓ That's rough.
Use 'That's rough' on its own; don't add a noun after 'rough' here.
Don't confuse it
'That's rough' acknowledges a hard time; 'That's tough luck' can sound cold or dismissive.