a rough patch

a rough patch

A period of trouble, difficulty, or hardship. Almost every new business experiences a rough patch at some point or another.
See also: patch, rough
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • go through a rough patch
  • have a rough patch
  • go through a bad patch
  • go through, hit, etc. a bad/sticky patch
  • go through a sticky patch
  • hit a bad patch
  • hit a sticky patch
  • rough in
  • shouting match
  • a shouting match
References in periodicals archive
The former X Factor judge, 34, and One Direction star, 24, are "going through a rough patch" with some insiders speculating they could split.
WE CAN WORK IT OUT; Cheryl & Liam relationship on rocks
It had been claimed the couple hit a rough patch after the NFL star received a four-game suspension from the New England Patriots earlier this year.
Model Gisele staying with hubby Tom
Summary: The economy has gone through a rough patch in the recent past.
The top 100 CEOs
New Delhi, March 14 (ANI): The Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament has hit a rough patch, with the Home Ministry asking the organizers to rework the revised schedule.
Home Ministry says 'No' to revised dates for IPL
And while Vince still adores Kendra, who is attending a college nearby, their relationship hits a rough patch. She's spending all her time on her lead role in a musical, while Vince is tempted by the beautiful girls he meets at school.
Korman, Gordon. Son of the mob: Hollywood hustle
Wedding planner Carnegie Kincaid is going through a rough patch professionally and personally.
Death Takes a Honeymoon
Patient A said: "For a couple that may have been going through a rough patch or just starting out in a relationship it could have been just utterly devastating for them."
Couple's agony at doctor's diagnosis blunder; Medic found guilty of poor professional performance
The pair's pals have blasted reports stating that the two are not together, insisting that they have "hit a rough patch", Contactmusic reported.
Megan Fox, Brian Austin Green 'seeking professional help to save romance'
Justin, age 13, is going through a rough patch. His beloved brother Duane has enlisted in the army and is being shipped out to Iraq; his father has left, perhaps for good; and his depressed mother can barely get out of bed most days.
Fogelin, Adrian. The big nothing
An insider said: 'Kate knows Goldie and Russell are going through a rough patch - they have before, but this time it's more serious.
The Razz: Kate's 'stay together' plea