a tough cookie

USAGE SUMMARY

"a tough cookie" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is resilient or determined, especially when facing difficult situations. For example, "Dina is a tough cookie. She passed her exams even though she had to take care of her sick parents at the same time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm sure Cookie is a tough cookie, and she'll recover from this".

The New York Times

A tough cookie then?

Independent

I'm a tough cookie.

The Guardian - Sport

"She's a tough cookie".

The New York Times - Style

He is a tough cookie.

The Guardian - Sport

She's really a tough cookie.

The New Yorker

"Larry said he was a tough cookie.

The New Yorker

Zal calls his mother a tough cookie.

The New Yorker

"Sandy is a tough cookie," he said.

The New York Times

"He's kind of a tough cookie," Ingels said.

The New Yorker

My mom was a lovely woman but a tough cookie.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tough cookie" to describe someone who demonstrates resilience and determination in the face of adversity. It's more impactful when showcasing how their actions reflect their inner strength rather than merely stating they possess it.

Common error

Don't use the phrase merely for someone who appears stern or unapproachable. "A tough cookie" implies an inner strength and resilience, not just an outward demeanor. Reserve it for individuals who have genuinely overcome significant challenges or display remarkable fortitude.

How to use

Learn how to use "a tough cookie" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tough cookie" functions as a noun phrase, serving as a descriptor for an individual's character. It effectively communicates that the person in question possesses qualities of resilience, determination, and strength in the face of adversity. As Ludwig AI explains, it highlights inner strength.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough cookie" is a common idiom used to describe someone resilient and determined. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in written English, particularly in informal contexts. While grammatically correct, its casual tone makes it less appropriate for formal settings, where alternatives like "resilient individual" might be more suitable. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media sources, emphasizing its role in adding a personal touch to reporting. Understanding the nuances of this phrase allows for more effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a resilient individual

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

a determined person

Emphasizes the unwavering resolve to achieve goals.

a strong character

Highlights the inner fortitude and moral fiber.

a durable personality

Stresses the capacity to withstand hardship and remain intact.

a hardy soul

Implies a robust and vigorous spirit.

a steadfast individual

Focuses on loyalty and consistency in the face of challenges.

an unflappable person

Highlights composure and calmness under pressure.

a gritty character

Emphasizes courage and resolve combined with toughness.

a survivor

Implies overcoming significant obstacles or threats.

a fighter

Highlights a proactive approach to confronting challenges.

FAQs

How can I describe someone similar to "a tough cookie"?

You can use alternatives like "a resilient individual", "a determined person", or "a strong character" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a tough cookie" in formal writing?

While "a tough cookie" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. For formal writing, consider more professional alternatives like "resilient" or "determined".

What qualities define someone who is "a tough cookie"?

A "tough cookie" is someone who displays resilience, determination, and an ability to withstand challenges. They often demonstrate a strong will and a refusal to give up easily.

Can "a tough cookie" be used to describe a situation?

No, "a tough cookie" is typically used to describe a person, not a situation. A challenging situation might be described as "a tough situation" or "a difficult task".