The phrase "rough it" refers to living in conditions that are not luxurious or comfortable. It is pronounced as /rʌf ɪt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "rʌf" sounds like the word "rough" with a stressed "uh" sound in the middle. The second syllable, "ɪt", sounds like the word "it" with a short "ih" sound. The spelling of the word reflects the pronunciation of the two syllables, with the "u" and "gh" in "rough" representing the vowel and consonant sounds, respectively, and "it" is spelled as it is pronounced.
"Roughing it" is an idiomatic expression that refers to engaging in an activity or living under conditions that lack comfort, convenience, or luxury. This term is commonly used to describe situations where individuals willingly choose to forgo modern amenities and opt for a more basic, rustic, or primitive way of living. It often entails willingly subjecting oneself to physical discomforts and challenges, such as sleeping in a tent, hiking or camping in the wilderness, or engaging in activities that require physical endurance and resilience.
The concept of roughing it is often associated with being in close proximity to nature and disconnecting from the conveniences typically found in urban or modern settings. It entails embracing a simpler lifestyle, foregoing modern comforts like electricity, plumbing, and technology, and instead relying on limited resources and basic survival skills. Roughing it is often sought after by outdoor enthusiasts, adventure-seekers, and those who value solitude and exploration of natural environments. The experience of roughing it can promote self-reliance, resilience, and a deeper connection with nature by exposing individuals to the challenges and rawness of the natural world.
In summary, roughing it encompasses voluntarily living or engaging in activities that lack modern conveniences, focusing on a more simplistic and basic way of life.
The phrase "rough it" originated in the early 19th century. It is derived from the adjective "rough", which traces back to Old English "ruh" meaning "coarse", "uncouth", or "unrefined". The term "rough it" initially referred to living or traveling in primitive, uncomfortable, or challenging conditions, without the comforts of modern civilization. It suggests experiencing the hardships, inconveniences, or lack of amenities associated with roughing or roughing it out.