# tougher

/ˈtəfɝ/ (US) · /tˈʌfɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tougher
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The second exam is much tougher than the first one.
- The coach introduced a tougher training schedule to prepare the team for the national finals.
- While the initial negotiations were simple, the subsequent rounds proved significantly tougher as both parties refused to compromise on their core demands.

## Pitfalls

- Not "more tougher" but "tougher" — Learners often use 'more' with comparative adjectives that already end in '-er'. Only use one comparative marker.

## Usage notes

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

---

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.