tough - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tough Word Meanings
- strong and durable
- difficult to deal with
- having a strong character
tough Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tough Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tʌf/
US
/tʌf/
tough Word Etymology
tough = tough (root word). Originated from Middle English, from the Old Norse word 'tūfr' meaning 'a tuft or clump'. Imagine a strong, tufted plant resisting harsh weather, symbolizing resilience.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the door handle and move my wrist, feeling the metal give a little as I push. I shift my weight, adjust my grip, and keep the effort steady. When the latch finally yields, the tension in my chest eases and I sense the task becoming something I can meet. That small push through turns a moment of resistance into a habit of pressing on.
Real Context
Tough is a flexible adjective with three broad senses: something is physically strong or durable (a tough material or shield); a task, situation, or problem is difficult and requires effort to handle; a person or character is resilient, stubborn, or firm in the face of pressure. In everyday English, tough can appear in phrases like tough decision, tough opponent, tough as nails, and tough love, where tone matters. It often contrasts with hard or difficult by emphasizing perseverance and ruggedness rather than mere difficulty. Learners should note that tough can be flattering (a tough, capable person) or critical (a tough break), and collocations carry subtle shades of intensity. Remember that native speakers also use it in humorous or idiomatic ways that extend beyond literal meanings.
Usage Reminders
- Use tough for durability and resilience, not just difficulty. Choose tough when the emphasis is strength or perseverance. Distinguish tough from hard and difficult by focusing on endurance and grit. Favor phrases like tough decision or tough as nails in casual speech. Avoid overusing tough in formal writing. Remember tone matters; a compliment can turn critical with the wrong context.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing tough with hard/difficult in all cases
- Thinking tough must always mean harsh or unkind
- Misreading 'tough as nails' as literal nails
- Using 'tough' for minor challenges
- Overusing 'tough' in formal writing
Thinking Differences
In English, toughness often pairs with weighty nouns like decision or opponent, and with a casual, sometimes macho tone. Learners tend to overuse it for any challenge, missing nuance about endurance and resilience.
Learning Tips
- Study common collocations (tough decision, tough crowd, tough break)
- Compare tough with hard/difficult in context
- Listen for tone to gauge positive vs negative use
- Use idioms like tough as nails, tough love in moderation
- Practice with real-life scenarios to feel nuance
- Record and compare paraphrases to check nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which of the following best describes the meaning of the word 'tough'?
A.Difficult
B.Confusing
C.Easy
D.Exciting
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'tough' used correctly?
A.He struggled through the tough project.
B.The tough exam was a piece of cake.
C.She showed toughness by giving up easily.
D.The soft blanket was tough to cuddle with.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'tough'?
A.Soft
B.Rough
C.Gentle
D.Pleasant
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'tough'?
A.Simple
B.Delicate
C.Brave
D.Lazy
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone need to be tough?
A.Sleeping in
B.Walking in a park
C.Watching a sad movie
D.Competing in a sports match
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App