Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a bad patch / a rough patch

phrase
/ə bɑːd pætʃ/ /ə rʌf pætʃ/
Definition
A difficult or challenging period in someone’s life or a situation.
Examples
  • After losing his job, John went through a bad patch.
  • She decided to take a break while going through a rough patch in her personal life.
  • Everyone goes through a rough patch at some point; it’s a part of life.
Meaning
The term refers to a phase in which a person experiences hardships or struggles, often marked by obstacles or emotional distress.
Synonyms
  • difficult time
  • tough situation
  • hardship
  • challenging phase
  • struggle