Pronunciation: [ɹˈʌf stˈʌf] (IPA) 
The phrase "rough stuff" is spelled with the letters R-O-U-G-H followed by S-T-U-F-F. The "ou" in "rough" is pronounced like the "ah" as in "father" sound (IPA symbol: ɑ), and the "gh" is silent. The "u" in "stuff" is pronounced like the "uh" as in "put" sound (IPA symbol: ʌ). The word "rough" can also be pronounced with the "uh" sound, depending on the speaker's dialect or preference.
Rough stuff is a colloquial term used to denote rough or aggressive physical behavior or violent action. It refers to actions, behavior, or encounters that are characterized by being physically challenging, harsh, or brutal, often involving forceful contact or confrontation.
In the realm of sports, rough stuff is commonly used to describe physical play or aggressive tactics, especially when it exceeds the limits allowed by the sport's rules and regulations. It can involve actions such as rough tackles, body checks, or physical confrontations between players. This term is often associated with contact sports like rugby, ice hockey, or American football, where physicality is an integral aspect of gameplay.
Outside the context of sports, rough stuff can refer to violence or physically aggressive behavior encountered in various situations or environments. It may encompass instances of physical altercations, brawls, fights, or confrontations involving physical force or aggression.
The phrase can also be employed metaphorically to describe difficult or challenging situations or experiences that test an individual's resilience or endurance. It may encompass various hardships, adversity, or emotionally taxing circumstances.
Overall, rough stuff refers to physical aggression, confrontations, violent action, or challenging situations that demand physical or emotional strength and resilience.
The term "rough stuff" has a relatively straightforward etymology. The word "rough" originated from the Old English word "rūh", which itself is of Germanic origin. It referred to something that was uneven or coarse in texture. Over time, the term "rough" came to be associated with things that were harsh or unpleasant.
The word "stuff", on the other hand, has a much more complex etymology. It derives from the Old French word "estoffe", which meant "material" or "substance". "Estoffe" originated from the Latin word "stuppa", referring to coarse flax or tow. This Latin word ultimately originated from the Greek word "stuppē", which meant "tow" or "rags".
When the words "rough" and "stuff" are combined, "rough stuff" is used to describe something difficult, coarse, or unpleasant.
