a tough move

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough move" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or action that is difficult or challenging to undertake. Example: "Deciding to leave my job for a new opportunity was a tough move, but I felt it was necessary for my growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

It is a tough move for parents.

The New York Times

Each time they nailed a tough move or stuck a landing, the fans cheered so loud that they shook the arena.

The New York Times - Sports

"It will be a tough move to leave Bradford.

BBC

It definitely has been a tough move for us.

Los Angeles Times

That may be a tough move, considering that affection for the mountain lion runs deep.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But domestic politics may make any tough move against militants on the border difficult.

The New York Times

I know in my life, my karma is, 'If you don't like it, tough, move on.' And I move on.

Wikipedia

I have a tough time moving as well on it and I feel like it's slippery.

The New York Times

Stocks had a tough time moving higher given the nervousness of investors about prices being too high.

The New York Times

The resulting movie is a tough and moving drama about African-American lives: a film to be compared with Ken Loach and perhaps Charles Burnett's Killer of Sheep or Michael Roemer's Nothing But a Man.

The Guardian - Film

Unfavorable Running Back Matchups Reggie Bush (MIA) vs. Houston — Bush and the anemic Dolphins offense will have a tough time moving the ball, period, let alone on the ground as Houston gave up the seventh fewest yards to running backs last season.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tough move", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the move is considered difficult. Provide specific details about the challenges or potential consequences involved to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a tough move" as a generic description without explaining the specific difficulties or challenges it entails. Readers need to understand why the move is tough to appreciate the full impact of the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tough move" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "tough" modifies the noun "move". It describes a specific action or decision characterized by difficulty or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough move" is a phrase used to describe a difficult or challenging action or decision. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and usability across various contexts. While alternatives like "a difficult decision" or "a challenging action" exist, "a tough move" often implies a greater degree of resilience and determination. The phrase is commonly found in news and media, conveying that a particular action involves significant challenges or consequences. Remember to provide sufficient context when using this phrase, ensuring clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult decision

Emphasizes the mental effort and potential emotional distress involved.

a challenging action

Highlights the demanding nature of the action and the skills required.

a demanding step

Focuses on the high requirements and effort associated with the step.

a complex undertaking

Suggests the involvement of many interconnected parts and considerations.

an arduous task

Implies a prolonged and strenuous effort.

a formidable endeavor

Highlights the significant obstacles and challenges to overcome.

a Herculean effort

References a task requiring immense strength, courage, or endurance.

a risky venture

Indicates a possibility of failure or negative consequences.

a strategic gamble

Suggests a calculated risk taken with the hope of achieving a significant advantage.

a bold stroke

Highlights the courage and audacity involved in the move.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tough move" to describe a decision or action that is difficult or challenging. For example, "Leaving the company after ten years was "a tough move", but I needed a change."

What are some alternatives to "a tough move"?

Alternatives include "a difficult decision", "a challenging action", or "a demanding step", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a tough move" or "a difficult move"?

Both "a tough move" and "a difficult move" are acceptable, but "tough" often implies a greater degree of resilience and determination in overcoming the challenge. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What makes "a tough move" different from "a bold move"?

"A tough move" emphasizes the difficulty and challenges involved, while "a bold move" highlights courage and risk-taking. A move can be both tough and bold, but the focus differs.