# do it tough

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/do-it-tough
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be in a desperate situation; to struggle.

## Examples

- Many families are doing it tough during this economic crisis.
- Small business owners are doing it tough right now because of the rising costs of materials and labor.
- Despite the outward appearance of success, the artist was doing it tough, struggling to pay rent while waiting for his work to gain recognition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.