This phrase is generally only used by Cornish (Cornwall, UK) people- Something or someone is said to be “as rough as rats“. Alluring to having an unkept nature about it or them.
Person 1: Alright me fucker, hows you? ("Fucker" used as an affectionate reference to a friend, this is common in Cornwall)
Person 2: As rough as rats. I think I got the dreaded lurgy.
Person 2: As rough as rats. I think I got the dreaded lurgy.
by JamesofBlakely March 17, 2022