tough sledding
A situation in which it is difficult to proceed.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Learning this new language is tough sledding for me.”
“The project faced tough sledding when the team lost their main source of funding halfway through the year.”
“Despite his extensive preparation, the candidate found it tough sledding as the interviewers grilled him on the most technical aspects of his previous research.”
- 01
do it tough
To be in a desperate situation; to struggle.
- 02
hang tough
To remain strong-willed or brave, especially when experiencing duress or adversity.
- 03
rough sledding
A difficult period of time.
- 04
tough as nails
Having a hard, strong, and determined mindset.
- 05
tough break
A situation resulting in misfortune or hardship; an instance of bad luck.
- 06
tough call
A choice or judgment which is difficult to make, especially one involving only two alternatives.
- 07
tough case
A person who is difficult to work with.
- 08
tough cookies
Too bad (for one); the outcome that one desires is not likely to change.
Last updated August 10, 2026