What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tough
Example
The steak was tough and hard to chew. [tough: adjective]
Example
She's a tough athlete who never gives up. [tough: adjective]
Example
The exam was really tough, but I managed to pass. [tough: adjective]
stubborn
Example
He's so stubborn, he won't listen to anyone else's ideas. [stubborn: adjective]
Example
The jar lid was stubborn and wouldn't budge. [stubborn: adjective]
Example
The company's stubborn policies prevented any real progress. [stubborn: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tough is more commonly used than stubborn in everyday language. Tough is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while stubborn is more specific and often used to describe people or situations that resist change.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tough and stubborn?
Both tough and stubborn are informal words that are suitable for casual conversations. However, tough can also be used in more formal contexts, while stubborn is generally considered too negative for formal situations.
