Tough: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to someone or something that can endure difficult situations or physical stress. This word can also imply a stern or strict attitude.

• She's a tough negotiator.
• The meat was too tough to chew.

Use when describing someone or something with great physical power, mental strength, or intensity.

• He is strong enough to lift those heavy boxes.
• She has a strong will.

Use when describing someone or something that can quickly recover from setbacks or difficulties, highlighting the ability to bounce back.

• Children are often resilient and adapt well to change.
• The economy proved to be resilient after the crisis.

Use when referring to someone or something that is robust and capable of surviving difficult conditions, often used in the context of plants or animals.

• These hardy plants can survive the winter.
• He's a hardy athlete.

Used to describe something that is hard to deal with, either physically or emotionally, but can also imply resilience.

• The exam was tough, but I managed to pass
• He's had a tough year, but he keeps going

Used to describe situations that are difficult but stimulating, often implying that the difficulty can be motivating or rewarding.

• Learning a new language is challenging but fun
• She accepted the challenging task with enthusiasm

Used to describe something that requires a lot of time, attention, or effort, often stressing the high expectations or requirements involved.

• His job is very demanding, often requiring him to work late hours
• The teacher set a demanding coursework

Used to describe tasks or journeys that are extremely difficult and require a lot of effort over a long period of time. It conveys a sense of exhaustion.

• The hikers faced an arduous climb up the mountain
• Completing the project was an arduous process

This word can describe someone who is strong, brave, and able to deal with difficult situations. It is often used in a positive context. It can also refer to situations or tasks that are difficult.

• She is a tough negotiator and always gets the best deals.
• Running a marathon is a tough challenge.

This word refers to someone who has committed a crime. It is used in legal or formal contexts and has a negative connotation.

• The criminal was arrested for theft.
• He has a criminal record.

Thug refers to a violent person, especially a criminal or a gangster. It is often used in a negative way to describe someone involved in violence and crime.

• The area is notorious for its gangs of thugs.
• He was beaten up by a thug on his way home.

This word describes a noisy and violent person, often involved in unlawful acts. It is usually used to describe someone in a literary or old-fashioned way and carries a negative connotation.

• The ruffians were causing trouble in the town square.
• He was attacked by a group of ruffians.