How Do You Spell RIDE ROUGHSHOD?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈa͡ɪd ɹˈʌfʃɒd] (IPA)

The phrase "ride roughshod" means to act without regard for the opinions or feelings of others. The spelling of this idiom is unusual and can be confusing. The "ough" in "rough" is pronounced as /ʌf/, while the "shod" at the end is pronounced with a long "o" sound, /ʃɒd/. So, the phonetic transcription for "ride roughshod" is /raɪd ˈrʌfʃɒd/. Despite the odd spelling, this expression is often used in both formal and informal contexts.

RIDE ROUGHSHOD Meaning and Definition

1. "Ride roughshod" is an idiomatic expression that dates back to the 18th century and refers to a forceful or aggressive manner of dealing with something or someone, often without regard for their feelings or opinions. The term derives from the literal practice of wearing horseshoes with rough, protruding nails on the bottom, known as "roughshod shoes," which were used to provide better traction for horses on slippery surfaces.

   Metaphorically, "ride roughshod" implies a dominating or overpowering stance, suggesting the exertion of control or authority in a forceful, obtrusive, or insensitive way. It often involves disregarding or trampling over the rights, wishes, or sensitivities of others. The expression suggests an attitude that is dismissive of opposition or dissent and illustrative of an individual or entity's willingness to impose their will or agenda without consideration for the potential consequences or adverse repercussions.

   Typically, "ride roughshod" is used to describe situations where an individual or group exercises a high degree of control or dominance over others, using their power to suppress or disregard objections or alternative viewpoints. This coercive behavior may involve imposing one's own beliefs, preferences, or decisions upon others, regardless of their consent or dissent. The expression often carries a negative connotation and implies a lack of empathy, fairness, or respect for others' perspectives.

Common Misspellings for RIDE ROUGHSHOD

• eide roughshod
• dide roughshod
• fide roughshod
• tide roughshod
• 5ide roughshod
• 4ide roughshod
• rude roughshod
• rjde roughshod
• rkde roughshod
• rode roughshod
• r9de roughshod
• r8de roughshod
• rise roughshod
• rixe roughshod
• rice roughshod
• rife roughshod
• rire roughshod
• riee roughshod
• ridw roughshod

Etymology of RIDE ROUGHSHOD

The phrase "ride roughshod" originated in equestrian terminology. It traces its roots back to the practice of horseshoeing, specifically a certain type of horseshoe known as "roughshod". The term "roughshod" refers to a horseshoe that has a rough or uneven surface due to the exposed nail heads protruding from its sole.

The technique of riding "roughshod" involved deliberately treading on a surface or individual with the nail heads of the horseshoe, rather than the flatter part of the shoe. This concept was often used as a means of exercising dominance or asserting control over others.

Over time, the phrase "ride roughshod" has evolved from its literal equestrian sense to a figurative meaning.

Idioms with the word RIDE ROUGHSHOD

• ride roughshod over sb/sth To "ride roughshod over someone or something" means to treat them with little consideration or respect, disregarding their opinions, rights, or feelings. It implies using one's power or authority to dominate or control others without considering any potential negative consequences. It is often used to describe situations where one person or group exerts power or influence over another in a highly assertive or oppressive manner.
• ride roughshod over The idiom "ride roughshod over" means to act with disregard for the opinions, rights, or feelings of others, often in a forceful or dominating manner. It implies using one's authority or power to bulldoze through obstacles, opposition, or dissent without consideration for the consequences or impact on others.
• ride roughshod over sth/sb To "ride roughshod over something/someone" means to treat them with disrespect or disregard, often by forcefully imposing one's own opinions or actions without considering the feelings or rights of others. It implies acting or behaving in a dominant or oppressive manner, ignoring any opposition or objections.
• ride roughshod over sm or sth The idiom "ride roughshod over someone or something" means to treat them harshly or without consideration, usually by disregarding their feelings, rights, or opinions. It implies acting with an attitude of dominance or superiority, and not giving proper regard to the concerns or interests of others.
• ride roughshod over (someone or something) To "ride roughshod over someone or something" means to act in a dominant or careless manner, ignoring the rights, opinions, or concerns of others. It refers to treating others in a harsh or insensitive way, often using one's position or power to impose their will or decisions without considering the consequences or the well-being of others.