Synonyms for

Tougher

Verb / ˈtʌfɜ: / Another word for tougher — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having a strong and durable quality; not easily broken or made weak

Synonyms & similar words

sturdy ruffianly tough hard elusive toughened problematic tender knotty problematical bad baffling rugged stronger hardier sturdier firmer

Synonyms by register

Formal

more arduous more challenging more difficult

Informal

harder trickier more of a struggle

Literary

more unyielding more formidable

Antonyms

easier simpler softer gentler weaker lighter

Common collocations

  • much tougher
  • even tougher
  • tougher than expected
  • tougher than before
  • tougher conditions
  • tougher competition
  • tougher decision

Word family

noun toughness
adjective tough
adverb toughly

Usage note

Tougher is the comparative form of the adjective 'tough'. It is used to compare two or more things that are difficult or require strength and resilience.

Example sentences

  1. The football team needed to be tougher to win the game.
  2. The new shoes are tougher than the old ones.
  3. The teacher gave us a tougher assignment this week.
  4. The soldiers had to be tougher to survive in the warzone.
  5. The gymnast practiced harder to become tougher.

Quotes

  • When the going gets tough, the tough get going.
  • It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer.
  • The strongest oak of the forest is not the one that is protected from the storm and hidden from the sun. It's the one that stands in the open where it is compelled to struggle for its existence against the winds and rains and the scorching sun.

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