Tougher: meaning, definitions and examples

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tougher

 

[ ˈtʌfər ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in a competition or challenge

Demonstrating a greater level of difficulty or resistance compared to others. Often used to describe a more demanding task or opponent.

Synonyms

harder, more challenging, stiffer

Examples of usage

  • The final round of the tournament will be much tougher than the earlier matches.
  • She is known for her tougher training regimen, pushing her athletes to their limits.
  • The new regulations will make it tougher for small businesses to compete in the market.
Context #2 | Adjective

in character or behavior

Showing a more resilient, determined, or uncompromising attitude compared to others. Often used to describe a person's approach to difficult situations.

Synonyms

determined, resilient, uncompromising

Examples of usage

  • Despite facing setbacks, she remained tough and resilient.
  • The coach praised the player for her tougher mentality on the field.
  • He had a tougher demeanor than his colleagues, never backing down from a challenge.

Translations

Translations of the word "tougher" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais difícil

🇮🇳 अधिक कठिन

🇩🇪 härter

🇮🇩 lebih sulit

🇺🇦 важчий

🇵🇱 trudniejszy

🇯🇵 より難しい

🇫🇷 plus difficile

🇪🇸 más difícil

🇹🇷 daha zor

🇰🇷 더 어려운

🇸🇦 أكثر صعوبة

🇨🇿 těžší

🇸🇰 ťažší

🇨🇳 更难的

🇸🇮 težji

🇮🇸 erfiðari

🇰🇿 қиынрақ

🇬🇪 უფრო რთული

🇦🇿 daha çətin

🇲🇽 más difícil

Word origin

The word 'tougher' originates from the Old English word 'tōh', meaning strong or firm. It has evolved over time to encompass a variety of meanings related to strength, resilience, and difficulty. The modern usage of 'tougher' reflects its enduring association with challenges and obstacles, highlighting the importance of strength and determination in overcoming adversity.

See also: tough, toughen, toughening, toughness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,001, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.