# toughest

/ˈtəfəst/ (US) · /tˈʌfəst/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

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

## Definition

the most difficult, strong, or determined. You use this to describe the person or thing that can handle the most pressure or pain.

For teachers: the superlative form of 'tough', indicating the highest degree of physical or mental resilience, difficulty, or durability.

## Examples

- This is the toughest exam I have ever taken.
- The manager had to make the toughest decision of her career when she closed the branch.
- While the marathon is physically demanding, the toughest part for most runners is the psychological battle that begins after the twentieth mile.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the most toughest" but "the toughest" — Since 'tough' is a one-syllable adjective, the superlative is formed by adding '-est', not by using 'most'.

## Usage notes

- Superlative form of 'tough'; typically preceded by the definite article 'the'.

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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.