a tough character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is strong, resilient, or difficult to deal with, often in a positive or neutral context. Example: "Despite the challenges she faced, her reputation as a tough character helped her navigate through difficult situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Film

Literature

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

He is a tough character, too.

Independent

It's a tough character, a really demanding role.

The New York Times

A tough character, that brother, a vildi chaya, a brawler.

The New York Times

He is a tough character but it doesn't sit right with me.

The Guardian - Sport

Gascoyne likes his own way on technical matters and is a tough character.

The Guardian - Sport

"He's a tough character and not much fazes him; it never has in the many years I've known him.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

He reminds her that he takes grave risks for his money, and, in any case, he answers to a bigger dealer, a tougher character who won't let Mike get away with short payments.

The New Yorker

"These things are sent to try us and I have no doubt this will make her a tougher character and a better footballer".

BBC

She credited the role she played in this episode as demonstrating that she could play a tougher character, something which allowed her to gain other roles once the series ended.

Wikipedia

Suddenly Sasha, who has always been (on the surface) a pretty tough character and a fighter, is too afraid to keep going because her brother might be dead and staying put will apparently shelter her from that certainty.

Forbes

"But Rouhani is a pretty tough character, and moderate is a relative term in the Iranian political system.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "a tough character", consider specifying the context in which their toughness is displayed. For example, "a tough character on the field" or "a tough character in negotiations" provides more clarity.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "tough" without providing additional details about the character's personality or actions. Instead of just saying "he's a tough character", elaborate on the specific traits that make him tough, such as his resilience, determination, or ability to handle pressure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tough character" primarily functions as a noun phrase, serving as a descriptor for an individual. As shown by Ludwig, it is used to denote someone who is resilient, determined, or difficult to overcome. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Film

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough character" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe someone who is resilient, determined, or difficult to overcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as sports commentary, to highlight an individual's strength in facing challenges. While generally positive, it's essential to provide context to clarify the specific aspects of toughness being described. Related phrases include "a resilient person" or "a strong-willed individual", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a resilient person

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

a strong-willed individual

Highlights determination and unwillingness to be easily influenced.

an indomitable spirit

Emphasizes an unbreakable and unconquerable spirit.

a formidable opponent

Stresses the difficulty in opposing or defeating someone.

a determined person

Highlights steadfastness in pursuing goals.

a resilient soul

Emphasizes the emotional and spiritual strength.

an unyielding personality

Focuses on inflexibility and firmness of character.

a tenacious individual

Highlights persistence and determination to hold onto something.

a durable person

Emphasizes the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage.

a steadfast character

Highlights loyalty and dependability.

FAQs

How can I use "a tough character" in a sentence?

You can use "a tough character" to describe someone who is resilient, determined, or difficult to intimidate. For example, "Despite facing many challenges, she proved herself to be a tough character." Another example could be, "He is "a very experienced manager" and also a tough character who is very much prepared for the battle ahead".

What are some alternatives to "a tough character"?

Alternatives include "a resilient person", "a strong-willed individual", or "an indomitable spirit", depending on the specific aspect of toughness you want to emphasize.

Is it always positive to describe someone as "a tough character"?

While often positive, describing someone as "a tough character" can also have negative connotations if it implies inflexibility or being difficult to deal with. The context and the specific qualities associated with the toughness are crucial in determining the overall tone.

What's the difference between "a tough character" and "a strong character"?

While similar, "a tough character" emphasizes resilience and the ability to withstand hardship, whereas "a strong character" generally highlights moral strength and integrity. "Tough" often implies an ability to endure, while "strong" implies an ethical or principled foundation.