in rough

in rough

In a preliminary, unfinished, or unpolished form. The legislation was rushed through parliament, despite the fact that it was clearly still in rough.
See also: rough
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

in ˈrough

(especially British English) if you write or draw something in rough, you make a first version of it, not worrying too much about mistakes or details: I’ve already written the essay in rough, but I need to write it out again this evening.
See also: rough
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • rough-hewn
  • rough out
  • rough edges
  • (a little/bit) rough around the edges
  • rough around the edges
  • (a little/bit) rough around the edge
  • (a little/bit) rough and ready
  • rough and ready
  • rough-and-ready
  • rough in
References in periodicals archive
The latest being last weekend where the Coventry scouting community have suffered damage following two break-ins at their headquarters and vandalism to a toilet block at the activity centre in Rough Close.
Mindless vandalism to scouts' facilities; LETTERS Get in touch - tell us what you think Email: letters@coventrytelegraph.net Twitter: @coventrytelegraph Facebook: facebook.com/coventrytelegraph Post: Coventry Telegraph, Leicester Row, Canal Basin, Coventry, CV1 4LY