transcription, транскрипция: [ tʌf ]
( tougher, toughest, toughs)
Frequency: The word is one of the 1500 most common words in English.
1.
A tough person is strong and determined, and can tolerate difficulty or suffering.
He built up a reputation as a tough businessman...
She is tough and ambitious.
ADJ
• tough‧ness
Mrs Potter has won a reputation for toughness and determination on her way to the top.
N-UNCOUNT
2.
If you describe someone as tough , you mean that they are rough and violent.
He had shot three people dead earning himself a reputation as a tough guy.
ADJ
•
A tough is a tough person.
Three burly toughs elbowed their way to the front.
N-COUNT
3.
A tough place or area is considered to have a lot of crime and violence.
She doesn’t seem cut out for this tough neighbourhood...
= rough
ADJ : usu ADJ n
4.
A tough way of life or period of time is difficult or full of suffering.
He was having a really tough time at work.
= rough
ADJ : usu ADJ n
5.
A tough task or problem is difficult to do or solve.
It was a very tough decision but we feel we made the right one...
= hard
ADJ : oft it v-link ADJ to-inf , ADJ to-inf
6.
Tough policies or actions are strict and firm.
He is known for taking a tough line on security...
= strong
ADJ
7.
A tough substance is strong, and difficult to break, cut, or tear.
In industry, diamond can form a tough, non-corrosive coating for tools.
ADJ
8.
Tough meat is difficult to cut and chew.
The steak was tough and the peas were like bullets.
ADJ
9.
If someone who is trying to achieve something hangs tough , they remain determined and do not give up, even when there are difficulties or problems. ( AM INFORMAL )
The White House is hanging tough for a good agreement to be reached.
PHRASE : V inflects