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REFERENCE

tough going

idiom
Meaning

A difficult situation


Examples
SIMPLE

Learning a new language is tough going at first.

CONTEXTUAL

The hike became tough going when the rain started and the path turned into thick mud.

COMPLEX

Despite their best efforts to stabilize the economy, the transition period remained tough going for the struggling local businesses.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    coming and going

    A general bustle of activity.

  2. 02

    do it tough

    To be in a desperate situation; to struggle.

  3. 03

    going away

    Ahead of the competitors and still increasing the lead.

  4. 04

    going rate

    The current standard or usual price, rate, or salary for something.

  5. 05

    got it going on

    Be attractive, outgoing (typically of women).

  6. 06

    hang tough

    To remain strong-willed or brave, especially when experiencing duress or adversity.

  7. 07

    have it going on

    To be attractive or socially successful or have an aura of success.

  8. 08

    heavy going

    Something that is boring; difficult to make progress on, or tedious

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