be tough enough to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be tough enough to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to have the strength or resilience to face challenges or difficult situations. Example: "You need to be tough enough to handle the criticism that comes with being in the public eye."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The next one needs to be tough enough to make Iran sit up and blink.

The Economist

We should be tough enough to expect the same of ourselves.

The New Yorker

"I expect her to be tough enough to win gold in either hurdles race," Foster said.

The New York Times - Sports

Will the fait maison regime be tough enough to tell them?

The Economist

A left-wing politician has to be tough enough to say no".

The New York Times

There are signs, though, that the assumptions will be tough enough to satisfy some skeptics.

The New York Times

Yet given Spain's bleak economic outlook, even this may not be tough enough to cut the budget deficit as promised.

The Economist

But if they don't, will Mr Paterson be tough enough to force his former colleagues to behave?

The Economist

A game designer e-mailed to ask whether a linothorax might be tough enough to stop a zombie's bite.

The New Yorker

Female gymnasts must be cast in two mediums: they must be tough enough to compete, yet soft enough to charm.

The Guardian - Sport

"But again, we think this is an historic moment where we have to be tough enough to take a tough stand".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be tough enough to" when you want to convey the necessity of resilience or strength to overcome a challenge or achieve a goal. It's particularly effective when addressing potential difficulties or obstacles.

Common error

While versatile, "be tough enough to" can sometimes sound overly forceful in casual conversation. Opt for softer alternatives like "able to" or "capable of" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be tough enough to" functions as an adjective phrase followed by an infinitive, expressing the capability or requirement of possessing a sufficient level of resilience, strength, or determination to achieve a specific action or withstand a challenging situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be tough enough to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys the necessity of resilience, strength, or determination for achieving a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s applicable in various contexts but leans towards neutral to professional settings. Predominantly featured in news and media, as well as scientific sources, this expression emphasizes overcoming challenges with adequate fortitude. When considering alternatives, phrases like ""be resilient enough to"" or ""be strong enough to"" can offer nuanced variations depending on the desired emphasis. While versatile, mindful application ensures the message resonates effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be resilient enough to

Emphasizes the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

be strong enough to

Focuses on physical or mental strength as a prerequisite.

be durable enough to

Highlights the capacity to endure wear and tear or harsh conditions.

be hardy enough to

Suggests a robust constitution or the ability to withstand adverse conditions.

be capable enough to

Indicates possessing the necessary skills and aptitude.

be equipped enough to

Implies having the tools, resources, or training required.

be prepared enough to

Focuses on readiness and anticipation of challenges.

be disciplined enough to

Highlights self-control and adherence to rules as key factors.

have the fortitude to

Emphasizes courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

have the grit to

Suggests determination and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.

FAQs

How can I use "be tough enough to" in a sentence?

You can use "be tough enough to" to indicate that someone or something needs to possess a certain level of resilience or strength in order to achieve a goal or withstand a challenge. For example, "The sanctions need to "be tough enough to" make Iran sit up and blink."

What phrases are similar to "be tough enough to"?

Similar phrases include "be strong enough to", "be resilient enough to", or "be durable enough to". The best choice depends on the specific context and the type of strength or resilience you wish to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "be tough enough for" instead of "be tough enough to"?

While "be tough enough for" is grammatically correct, it implies a different meaning. "Be tough enough for" suggests suitability for a particular purpose or situation, whereas ""be tough enough to"" indicates the capacity to perform an action or overcome an obstacle.

In what situations is "be tough enough to" most appropriate?

"Be tough enough to" is best used when emphasizing the necessity of having the strength, resilience, or determination to handle difficult or demanding situations. It's commonly found in discussions of politics, sports, and personal challenges.