What is the comparative form of “toughest”?
The comparative form of “toughest” is “tougher”.Example
The final exam was tougher than the midterm.
Example
He is tougher than he looks.
What is the superlative form of “toughest”?
The superlative form of “toughest” is “toughest”.Example
Among all the competitors, she is the toughest.
Example
The final round of the competition is known for being the toughest.
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 something that requires more effort or is more challenging
Example
The advanced level of the course is harder than the beginner level.
Example
The puzzle in the newspaper today is more difficult than yesterday's.
Used to describe someone who is more strict or severe
Example
The new teacher is sterner than the previous one.
Expressions with similar meanings to “toughest”
Similar to toughest, this emphasizes the highest level of difficulty or challenge
Example
The last level of the video game is the hardest.
Example
The math problem at the end of the chapter is the most difficult.
sternest
Used to describe someone who is the strictest or most severe
Example
The coach is the sternest when it comes to discipline.
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: "He is tougher than his opponent." Here, than is used to show that the toughness of 'he' is greater than the toughness of his opponent.
How can I use this expression in context?
“tougher” and “toughest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.- 1Exams
The final exam is always tougher than the previous ones.
The final exam is always tougher than the previous ones.
- 2Sports
The championship match is expected to be the toughest game of the season.
The championship match is expected to be the toughest game of the season.
- 3Jobs
Working in customer service can be one of the toughest jobs.
Working in customer service can be one of the toughest jobs.
- 4Competitions
The marathon is known for being one of the toughest races.
The marathon is known for being one of the toughest races.
- 5Challenges
Climbing Mount Everest is considered one of the toughest challenges in the world.
Climbing Mount Everest is considered one of the toughest challenges in the world.
Related idioms and phrases
Tough nut to crack
A difficult problem or person to deal with.
Example
She's a tough nut to crack, but I'm determined to win her over.
Bite the bullet
To face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination.
Example
Even though he was scared, he knew he had to bite the bullet and confront his fears.
Take the bull by the horns
To confront a difficult situation directly and with confidence.
Example
Instead of avoiding the issue, she decided to take the bull by the horns and address it head-on.
