What is the comparative form of “tougher”?
The comparative form of “tougher” is “tougher”.Example
The final exam was tougher than the practice test.
Example
He is tougher than he looks.
What is the superlative form of “tougher”?
The superlative form of “tougher” is “toughest”.Example
Among all the competitors, she is the toughest.
Example
The mountain climber is known for being the toughest person on the team.
Why is this expression not used with most, more?
'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with tough, tougher, and toughest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more tough' and 'most tough' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, tougher and toughest are the correct and preferred forms to use.
Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?
Tough does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Tough → Tougher Superlative: Tough → Toughest
Expressions with similar meanings to “tougher”
Used to describe someone or something that is physically or mentally more resilient
Example
The weightlifter is stronger than anyone else in the gym.
Used to indicate something that requires more effort or endurance
Example
Running a marathon is harder than running a 5K race.
A slightly formal way of expressing increased difficulty
Example
The advanced level of the course is more challenging than the beginner level.
Expressions with similar meanings to “toughest”
Similar to toughest, this emphasizes both physical and mental resilience
Example
Out of all the athletes, he is the strongest.
Used to describe the highest level of difficulty or endurance
Example
Completing a triathlon is one of the hardest challenges in sports.
A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of difficulty
Example
The most challenging part of the project is the research phase.
Using than with comparative “tougher”
When using the comparative form tougher to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The final exam was tougher than the practice test." Here, than is used to show that the difficulty level of the final exam is greater than the difficulty level of the practice test.
How can I use this expression in context?
“tougher” and “toughest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Physical Strength
He is tougher than anyone else in the gym.
He is tougher than anyone else in the gym.
- 2Challenges
The advanced level of the course is more challenging than the beginner level.
The advanced level of the course is more challenging than the beginner level.
- 3Competitions
Among all the competitors, she is the toughest.
Among all the competitors, she is the toughest.
- 4Endurance
Completing a triathlon is one of the hardest challenges in sports.
Completing a triathlon is one of the hardest challenges in sports.
- 5Resilience
The mountain climber is known for being the toughest person on the team.
The mountain climber is known for being the toughest person on the team.
Related idioms and phrases
Tough cookie
Used to describe someone who is strong and resilient
Example
She may seem small, but she's a tough cookie.
Bite the bullet
To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination
Example
Even though it was painful, he had to bite the bullet and get the surgery.
Take the heat
To handle criticism or pressure without becoming overwhelmed
Example
As the team captain, she knows how to take the heat and stay focused.
