toughen

[tuhf-uhn]

toughen Definition

• 1. to make something stronger and more able to withstand difficulty or pressure
• 2. to become stronger and more able to withstand difficulty or pressure

Using toughen: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "toughen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The coach is trying to toughen up the team for the upcoming game.

• Example

  Exercising regularly can help to toughen your muscles.

• Example

  The new regulations are designed to toughen penalties for environmental violations.

toughen Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for toughen

• strengthen
• harden
• fortify

Antonyms for toughen

• weaken
• soften

Phrases with toughen

• toughen one's stance

  to become more strict or uncompromising in one's position or opinion

  Example

  The politician has toughened his stance on immigration in recent years.

• toughen someone up

  to make someone stronger and more resilient, especially through difficult experiences

  Example

  Growing up in a rough neighborhood toughened him up.

• toughen the skin

  to become less sensitive to criticism or negative feedback

  Example

  Working in customer service can toughen the skin.

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Summary: toughen in Brief

To 'toughen' [tuhf-uhn] means to make something stronger and more able to withstand difficulty or pressure. It can also refer to becoming stronger and more able to withstand difficulty or pressure. Examples include toughening up a sports team, toughening one's stance on an issue, or toughening the skin to criticism. Synonyms include 'strengthen' and 'fortify.'