rhizoverbBeta
DictionarytoughStrong and resilient
adjective / noun / interjection

tough

TUF/tʌf/

Difficult to break down or overcome.

Pushing the loaded wheelbarrow up the steep slope is a tough task.

A young woman struggles to push a heavily loaded wheelbarrow up a short, steep garden slope, making a difficult task immediately visible.
Etymology
toughOld Englishstrong, firm, tenacious

Originally describing material that held firm and resisted separation, the word extended to things hard to endure. That resistance underlies the modern sense of a task or situation requiring sustained effort.

In context

Justin Outdoors180:54
it was a tough week but the weeks are only going to get even more difficult
36 Days Solo Thru-Hiking the Rocky Mountains | Full Documentary

More examples

  • The steak is too tough to chew comfortably.
  • Choosing between the two job offers is a tough decision.
  • Two neighborhood toughs threaten the shop owner.
  • “If you don't like the rules, tough,” the coach says.

Forms

tough · tougher · toughest · toughs

toughness noun — The ability to withstand damage or hardship.

toughen verb — To make or become more resistant.

Similar words

durable
Emphasizes lasting through repeated use without wearing out.
resilient
Emphasizes recovering after damage or hardship rather than resisting it.
difficult
Describes something requiring effort, without suggesting strength or durability.