rough up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The skies are a little rough up here,” he remarked with a wry smile, before mentioning that people will think he’s not in good health — but it was really the turbulence causing the problem.

From Salon • Oct. 31, 2025

During cross-examination, defense attorney Leonard Levine made Austin explain how he had changed his story from when he was initially taken into custody and told police that they intended only to rough up the hairstylist.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2025

Despite boasting just two KO wins, 'Heavy-Hitting Diva' Crews-Dezurn did not stop coming forward, trying to rough up Marshall on the inside and throwing wild, looping hooks.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2023

The Kraken can then rough up the Arizona Coyotes for the third time in eight days, this time in front of the Coyotes’ own fans.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 7, 2023

He’d look at me, and he’d laugh and rough up my hair, and then he’d take off his cap and he’d put it on my head.

From "Okay for Now" by Gary D. Schmidt