go through a rough patch

go through a rough patch

also go through a bad / difficult / sticky patch

Meaning

• to experience a lot of problems in a period of life
• be in the middle of a period of trouble
• experience a difficult or unpleasant period of time
• to face a lot of hardships during a period of time

Example Sentences

1. They have usually been very supportive of each other, but right now, their marriage is going through a bit of a rough patch.
2. Steve has been going through a rough patch lately – he has lost his job and his wife wants a divorce.
3. All relationships go through a rough patch at some point or the other. The key is to work together to resolve the issues and not blame each other for what's gone wrong.
4. They are going through a bit of a rough patch at the moment, but I am sure they will get over it soon and work out a way to settle their differences.
5. Their marriage went through a rough patch when he quit his job to try his hand at something new, but now, they love each other more than ever.
6. Every now and then they go through a rough patch, but they manage to come out of it stronger every time.

Origin
The origin of the phrase is not known.