Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
rugged
When describing people, "rugged" is usually a compliment. It suggests a natural strength and masculinity associated with outdoor life rather than being 'unkept'. In technical contexts, such as electronics or clothing, it refers to durability. A "ruggedized" phone is one specifically built to survive drops or water damage. Avoid using this word for things that are simply 'broken' or 'messy'; it implies a certain kind of strength or natural toughness.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is in a boardroom while Brian is in the server room.
David Smith
Need those tablets for the site visit. Make sure they're rugged.
Brian
They are. Just don't drop them in a lake this time.
💡
David is using 'rugged' to specify hardware that can withstand harsh industrial environments. Brian's response uses a dry, sarcastic tone typical of his grumpy persona, referencing a past mistake David likely made.