ENGLISH
REFERENCE

tougher

adj.
B1 Intermediate US //ˈtəfɝ// UK //tˈʌfɐ// tougher

adj. stronger, harder, or more difficult than something else. You use this to compare how much effort or strength is needed for a task or a person.

adj. the comparative form of 'tough', indicating a greater degree of physical or mental strength, durability, or difficulty. Often describes stricter rules or more challenging conditions.


SIMPLE

The second exam is much tougher than the first one.

CONTEXTUAL

The coach introduced a tougher training schedule to prepare the team for the national finals.

COMPLEX

While the initial negotiations were simple, the subsequent rounds proved significantly tougher as both parties refused to compromise on their core demands.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Comparative form of 'tough'. Often followed by 'than' when comparing two specific things.

Pitfall

more toughertougherLearners often use 'more' with comparative adjectives that already end in '-er'. Only use one comparative marker.

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