a tough solution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough solution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a solution that is difficult to implement or achieve, often due to its complexity or the challenges involved. Example: "Finding a tough solution to the ongoing issue required extensive research and collaboration among experts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The Nixon White House, addicts of toughness as only timid men can be, became inflamed with the desire for a "tough" solution.

The New Yorker

There are still some kinks in terms of connection, this is very much a tough solution to crack.

TechCrunch

Think of a tough solution that would fit that situation.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Ryan created an image for himself as a thoughtful centrist interested in tough solutions to tough problems.

Huffington Post

Both patients and voters are able to deal with short-term difficulties and tough solutions if they believe that the sacrifices will be worthwhile and a better future lies ahead.

Independent

Tough solutions may be needed for these problems, but we will not let the sick pay for Labour's debt crisis".

The Guardian

"It's desert-proof," says Eitelhuber. "Anywhere that has tough conditions that need tough solutions, we're looking there".

BBC

"Tough solutions may be required for these problems, but we will help the NHS overcome them," he added.

BBC

The get-tough solution was politically enormously popular at the time, when fear of crime was at its height.

The Guardian

It's clear that some pro teams are anticipating a tough year ahead, the solution for which may be cutting back ticket prices or losing sales.

Forbes

"For as many people who are looking for an instant solution to a tough problem, there are many more who are skeptical of easy answers," Mr. DeMicco said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tough solution", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the solution 'tough' – is it the implementation, the potential consequences, or the complexity?

Common error

While "a tough solution" is a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a challenging resolution" or "a complex answer" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tough solution" functions as a noun phrase, where 'tough' modifies 'solution'. It typically describes a resolution that is difficult to implement or achieve. As Ludwig AI shows, it is used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough solution" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a resolution that is difficult to implement or achieve. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, though it appears with relative infrequency. When employing the phrase, ensure that the context clarifies what makes the solution 'tough'. Consider alternatives such as "a challenging resolution" to avoid repetition. While versatile, its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging resolution

Replaces 'tough' with 'challenging' and 'solution' with 'resolution', emphasizing the difficulty of finding an answer.

a difficult answer

Substitutes 'tough' with 'difficult' and 'solution' with 'answer', highlighting the problematic nature.

a demanding fix

Uses 'demanding' instead of 'tough' and 'fix' instead of 'solution', focusing on the high requirements of the resolution.

a complex resolution

Replace 'tough' with 'complex' and 'solution' with 'resolution', emphasizing the intricate aspects of solving the problem.

a rigorous approach

Uses 'rigorous' to express 'tough' and 'approach' to express 'solution', focusing on the need for a strict method.

a formidable remedy

Replaces 'tough' with 'formidable' and 'solution' with 'remedy', suggesting a powerful and effective, yet difficult, fix.

a stringent measure

Replace 'tough' with 'stringent' and 'solution' with 'measure' suggesting a strict approach to address a specific problem.

a drastic measure

Replaces 'tough' with 'drastic' and 'solution' with 'measure', indicating a severe and impactful action.

an exacting method

Replace 'tough' with 'exacting' and 'solution' with 'method', highlighting the meticulous nature required.

a taxing resolution

Replace 'tough' with 'taxing' and 'solution' with 'resolution', suggesting the effort required to solve the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tough solution" when referring to a resolution that requires significant effort or involves difficult choices. For example: "The company implemented "a tough solution" to address its financial problems."

What can I say instead of "a tough solution"?

You can use alternatives like "a challenging resolution", "a difficult answer", or "a demanding fix" depending on the context.

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

Both "a tough solution" and "a difficult solution" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Tough" might imply resilience or firmness, while "difficult" might emphasize complexity or hardship.

What makes "a tough solution" different from other solutions?

"A tough solution" is characterized by the significant effort, difficulty, or potential negative consequences associated with its implementation. It's not just any solution, but one that requires considerable resolve or involves hard choices.