Bit of a ruffian, we hear (5)

I believe the answer is:

rough

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'bit of a ruffian' is the definition.
'rough' can be an answer for 'ruffian' (thesaurus). I am not certain of the 'bit of a' bit.

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rough that I've seen before include "Drivers try to steer clear of this" , "Approximate; turbulent" , "Rowdy - part of golf course" , "general" , "Rasping" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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