What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
durable
Example
This suitcase is made of durable material that can withstand rough handling. [durable: adjective]
Example
The company prides itself on producing durable and reliable products. [durable: adjective]
tough
Example
The leather jacket is tough and can protect you from the cold wind. [tough: adjective]
Example
She's a tough negotiator and won't back down easily. [tough: adjective]
Example
It was a tough decision to make, but I had to do what was best for me. [tough: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Durable is more commonly used than tough in everyday language, especially when referring to the quality of an object or material. Tough is more commonly used to describe a person's character or a challenging situation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between durable and tough?
Durable is more formal than tough, which is often used in casual or informal contexts. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.
