tough

Everyday

1. Tough means strong and not easily broken, cut or damaged: «tough boots». tree →
2. Tough means hard to do or difficult: «a tough test». tree →
3. A tough person is strong in body or mind and can deal with pain or problems. tree →
4. Tough food (like meat) is hard to cut or chew. tree →
5. Tough means strict and firm: «tough rules». tree →
6. «Tough!» or «Tough luck» is said, rather rudely, to mean «too bad». tree →

In the lessons

In school, «a tough question» or «a tough day» means hard. In science, «tough» materials resist breaking; scientists choose tough plastics for helmets. In stories a tough character is brave and does not give up. In PE, «tough it out» means keep going. Phrases: «tough luck», «a tough time», «tough it out», «get tough with».

Examples

• These boots are tough enough for hiking. tree →
• The maths test was tough. tree →
• She is tough and never gives up. tree →
• This steak is too tough to chew. tree →
• We've had a tough week. tree →
• The new head is tough on bad behaviour. tree →
• Being tough doesn't mean you can't cry. tree →
• He tied the Mouse's leg to his own with a tough reed. tree →

Note

Pronounced «tuff» (ough = «uff», as in «enough», «rough»). Comparative: tougher, toughest. Noun: toughness. Myth: tough people never cry or ask for help — asking for help is brave.