What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tough
Example
The exam was tough, but I managed to pass it. [tough: adjective]
Example
She's a tough woman who has overcome many obstacles in her life. [tough: adjective]
Example
Dealing with the pandemic has been tough for everyone. [tough: adjective]
formidable
Example
The team faced a formidable opponent in the championship game. [formidable: adjective]
Example
He's a formidable businessman who has built a successful company. [formidable: adjective]
Example
Learning a new language can be a formidable task. [formidable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tough is more commonly used than formidable in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tough and formidable?
Formidable is generally considered more formal than tough, which is often used in casual conversation.
