remained tough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "remained tough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has maintained strength or resilience in the face of challenges or difficulties. Example: "Despite the harsh conditions, the team remained tough and continued to push forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Through it all, she remained tough and positive.

The Guardian

Other economists also warned that the outlook remained tough for manufacturers.

The Guardian - Business

He described it as a breakthrough but warned that there remained "tough issues ahead".

The New York Times

Ithaca's offense stalled in the second half, but the defense remained tough.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite new accounts, the company said business remained "tough" after last year's decline in ad spending.

The New York Times

It warned the outlook for consumer spending remained tough, with cost pressures in food, duty and energy likely to continue.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Does the economic situation remain tough?

The Guardian

Europe and parts of Latin America remain tough regions for Caterpillar.

The New York Times

He believes times will remain tough for retailers next year.

The Guardian - Business

Chief executive Alan Mulally, conceded that conditions remain tough.

The Guardian - Business

We are going to have to remain tough".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remained tough" to describe a person, group, or entity that has successfully withstood challenges or adversity without losing strength or resolve. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "remained tough" in situations where sensitivity is required. The word "tough" can sometimes imply a lack of empathy or understanding, so consider alternative phrases like "stayed resilient" or "remained strong" in contexts where a more compassionate tone is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remained tough" functions as a descriptive predicate, modifying a subject by indicating a state of continued resilience or fortitude. According to Ludwig, it effectively conveys the idea of maintaining strength despite challenges. Examples from Ludwig show it applied to people, economies and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

24%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "remained tough" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe the continuation of strength, resilience, or determination amidst challenges. Predominantly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, it conveys admiration or acknowledgment of perseverance. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's usability and appropriateness, suggesting alternatives like "stayed strong" or "held firm" depending on the nuance required. The key is to ensure the context aligns with the implication of sustained effort and resistance to adversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remained resilient

Explicitly highlights the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

stayed strong

Focuses on the sustained strength of someone or something, omitting the connotation of difficulty faced.

maintained resolve

Focuses on the preservation of determination and purpose.

held firm

Emphasizes a steadfast position or resolve, rather than overall toughness or resilience.

persevered

Highlights the act of continuing despite obstacles, shifting focus from inherent toughness to sustained effort.

endured

Stresses the ability to withstand hardship over time, changing the perspective to the experience of suffering.

stood firm

Implies resistance and stability under pressure, rather than a general state of toughness.

kept going

Focuses on the continuation of effort, simplifying the aspect of resilience.

didn't give up

Highlights the lack of surrender or cessation of effort, rather than an inherent quality of toughness.

weathered the storm

Emphasizes successfully navigating through a difficult period, introducing a metaphorical element.

FAQs

What does "remained tough" mean?

"Remained tough" means to continue being strong, resilient, or determined in the face of adversity or difficulty. It implies an ongoing state of resistance and perseverance.

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

You can use "remained tough" to describe someone or something that has maintained strength or resilience in challenging situations. For example, "Despite the economic downturn, the company "remained tough" and profitable."

What are some alternatives to saying "remained tough"?

Some alternatives to "remained tough" include "stayed strong", "held firm", "remained resilient", or "persevered". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "remained tough" or "stayed tough"?

Both "remained tough" and "stayed tough" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. However, "remained tough" is generally considered more formal and implies a longer duration or a more significant challenge than "stayed tough".