Toughie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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toughie
[ˈtʌfi ]
Definition
challenge, person
A 'toughie' is a term used to describe something that is difficult or challenging, often referring to a problem or a person who is resilient and strong. In a more informal context, it can refer to a tough or challenging individual, particularly one who is hard to beat or overcome.
Synonyms
challenge, difficult situation, hard nut, hardship.
Examples of usage
- This puzzle is quite a toughie.
- She's a real toughie, never backs down from a fight.
- That exam was a toughie for most students.
- He faced a toughie with that last question.
- Finding a solution to this problem is a toughie.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The term has been popularized in various games and quizzes, where especially challenging questions or levels are often labeled as toughies.
- In sports commentary, a toughie might refer to a challenging play or game moment that tests players' skills.
Psychology
- Facing toughie situations helps develop resilience and problem-solving skills, crucial for personal growth.
- People often experience a sense of accomplishment after overcoming a toughie challenge, boosting their confidence.
Literature
- Authors often create toughie characters who face significant challenges, making for riveting plots and engaging storytelling.
- Classic literature frequently depicts toughies as tests of courage and wit, where protagonists must overcome adversity.
Origin of 'toughie'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'toughie' is derived from 'tough', which has roots in Old English, meaning strong or durable.
- It began as informal slang in the 20th century, often used to describe a difficult problem or situation.
- It can also mean a person who is resilient or strong in character.
The term 'toughie' originated from the adjective 'tough', which traces its roots back to the Middle English term 'tough', meaning strong or resilient. Over time, the suffix '-ie' was added to create a colloquial form used predominantly in informal contexts. 'Tough' has variations in meaning, including hard and difficult, and combining it with '-ie' seems to have emerged in the late 20th century. Today, it is often used in casual conversation to describe challenging circumstances or individuals who display remarkable resilience and strength. The playful nature of the suffix gives 'toughie' a lighter, more approachable connotation while preserving the seriousness of the challenge it describes.