What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stringy
Example
The steak was too stringy and hard to chew. [stringy: adjective]
Example
Her hair was so stringy that it was hard to brush. [stringy: adjective]
tough
Example
The steak was tough and hard to cut. [tough: adjective]
Example
She's a tough woman who can handle anything life throws at her. [tough: adjective]
Example
The leather jacket was tough and durable, perfect for outdoor activities. [tough: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tough is more commonly used than stringy in everyday language. Tough is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stringy is less common and mostly used to describe food or hair.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stringy and tough?
Both stringy and tough can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but tough is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.