standing tough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "standing tough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is resilient or maintains their position despite challenges or difficulties. Example: "Even in the face of adversity, she remained standing tough, refusing to back down from her beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Mr. Lazio seemed to struggle with standing tough while keeping his vow not to sound too negative.

The New York Times

While an indefinite strike would pose risk to both sides, each has made a calculated decision that it has more to gain by standing tough.

The New York Times

Most Spaniards admire Mr Aznar for keeping the trade unions sweet, for negotiating a tricky parliamentary pact with Catalan nationalists, and for standing tough in the face of Basque separatist violence.

The Economist

Still, since the president can't depend on the Iranian opposition toppling the government, 2010 is the year he must show he is standing tough to try to contain Iran.

The New York Times

Ever since Houston's economy shifted, in the nineteen-thirties, from timber and cotton to petrochemicals, people here have accustomed themselves to financial turbulence and its behavioral imperative: standing tough in the face of adversity.

The New Yorker

By Mimi Swartz Ever since Houston's economy shifted, in the nineteen-thirties, from timber and cotton to petrochemicals, people here have accustomed themselves to financial turbulence and its behavioral imperative: standing tough in the face of adversity.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

"To the extent she's a woman and has to prove she's tough, standing her ground is the best thing to do.

The New York Times

By this, he meant, say, a band in T-shirts, looking tough, standing in the back of a warehouse — authenticity as a euphemism for the absence of an idea.

The New Yorker

Eventually I made my way around to the 77th Street entrance, and there encountered the canoe full of Indians Holden describes: "Then you'd pass by this long, long Indian war canoe, about as long as three goddam Cadillacs in a row, with about twenty Indians in it, some of them paddling, some of them just standing there looking tough, and they all had war paint all over their faces.

The New York Times

In a crowded app market, standing out is tough, though not impossible.

TechCrunch

Watching the Stanley Cup playoffs is all well and good, but since there are no Canadian teams left standing, it's tough out there for hockey fans in the great white north.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "standing tough" to convey a sense of unwavering resolve in the face of adversity. It is suitable when describing someone who is not backing down from a challenge or sticking to their principles.

Common error

While "standing tough" is a valid idiom, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and predictable. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "remaining steadfast" or "holding firm" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "standing tough" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the action of resisting pressure or maintaining a firm position. Ludwig AI examples show it used in various contexts, like political negotiations or economic hardships, emphasizing resilience.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "standing tough" is a grammatically correct and understandable verb phrase used to convey resilience and resistance. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and usage primarily in news and media contexts. While not overly formal, it's important to avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "holding firm" or "staying strong" for varied expression. When used appropriately, "standing tough" effectively communicates unwavering resolve in the face of challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Staying strong

Emphasizes endurance and resilience in difficult circumstances.

Keeping one's ground

Emphasizes the act of defending one's position.

Holding firm

Highlights maintaining a position or belief despite pressure.

Resisting pressure

Directly addresses the act of withstanding external coercion.

Remaining steadfast

Focuses on unwavering commitment and resistance to change or opposition.

Showing resilience

Highlights the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

Not yielding

Focuses on the refusal to give way or compromise.

Maintaining resolve

Highlights the commitment to a course of action despite adversity.

Braving it out

Focuses on facing a difficult situation with courage.

Digging in

Suggests reinforcing one's position to resist external forces.

FAQs

What does "standing tough" mean?

"Standing tough" means to remain firm, resolute, and unwavering in the face of adversity, challenges, or opposition. It implies a refusal to yield or compromise, demonstrating strength and resilience.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "standing tough"?

It is appropriate to use "standing tough" when describing someone or something that is resisting pressure, maintaining their position, or showing resilience in a difficult situation. It is commonly used in news and media contexts to describe political stances or reactions to economic hardship.

What are some alternative phrases to "standing tough"?

Alternatives to "standing tough" include "holding firm", "remaining steadfast", "staying strong", or "keeping one's ground". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "standing tough" formal or informal?

The phrase "standing tough" is generally considered to be neutral in tone. While it is more common in news and media contexts, it is acceptable in both formal and informal writing, depending on the context and audience.