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.

Another character pretended to rough up the first character until the sign opened to say “ICE CREAM,” and then everyone danced happily.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

“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

Dean, during warm-up, would subtly rough up the ice in the required spot to avoid their knees, which gave far less traction than a sharpened blade, from sliding away under them.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2024

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

But he couldn’t let the two mean dogs rough up a weak old stray who looked like he might not even have any teeth.

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein