tough character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'tough character' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe someone with a resilient personality, who is not easily discouraged and who can manage difficult situations. For example: "John has a tough character and always manages to pull through tough times".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A really tough character.

The New York Times

He is a tough character, too.

Independent

It's a tough character, a really demanding role.

The New York Times

A tough character, that brother, a vildi chaya, a brawler.

The New York Times

He is a tough character but it doesn't sit right with me.

The Guardian - Sport

Gascoyne likes his own way on technical matters and is a tough character.

The Guardian - Sport

She will bounce back because she has the desire and the tough character.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The McCain-Bayh bill is explicitly designed to give AmeriCorps volunteers the sort of tough, character-building challenges that previous generations experienced in the military.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Those rats are tough characters".

The New Yorker

They are tough characters.

The Guardian - Sport

You just go up and down our roster -- we've got a bunch of guys that are very tough characters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tough character" to positively describe someone who displays resilience and strength in the face of adversity. For example, "Despite facing numerous setbacks, she proved to be a "tough character" and never gave up on her dreams."

Common error

Avoid using "tough character" in contexts where it might imply negativity or harshness. While toughness implies resilience, it can be misconstrued as being unfeeling or unsympathetic. Ensure the context clarifies the positive aspects of the character's toughness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough character" functions as a descriptive term, typically used to attribute a quality of resilience or fortitude to a person. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

13%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tough character" is a common and generally positive descriptor, used to portray someone as resilient and determined. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While the phrase typically conveys admiration, it's important to ensure the context clarifies the positive aspects of toughness, avoiding misinterpretations of negativity. Alternatives such as ""resilient individual"" or ""strong-willed person"" can be used to fine-tune the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resilient individual

Focuses on the person's ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

strong-willed person

Highlights the individual's determination and unwillingness to give up.

determined personality

Emphasizes the firmness of purpose in the individual's nature.

unyielding nature

Suggests an inflexible and persistent quality in the character.

hardened soul

Implies a character shaped by difficult experiences.

indomitable spirit

Focuses on the person's unbeatable or unyielding spirit.

tenacious individual

Highlights the person's tendency to hold firmly to something.

formidable person

Emphasizes the person's ability to inspire fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, intense, or capable.

resolute character

Focuses on the person's quality of being admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering.

sturdy personality

Suggests that the person is strong and unlikely to be easily damaged or affected.

FAQs

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

You can use "tough character" to describe someone resilient and determined. For example, "Despite the challenges, she proved to be a "tough character", overcoming every obstacle in her path."

What are some alternatives to saying someone is a "tough character"?

Alternatives include "resilient individual", "strong-willed person", or "determined personality" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always positive to describe someone as a "tough character"?

While generally positive, the phrase can be misconstrued depending on context. Ensure it's clear that "tough" refers to resilience and determination, not negativity or harshness.

What qualities define a "tough character"?

A "tough character" is generally defined by resilience, determination, and the ability to withstand and overcome adversity. They are not easily discouraged and often display a strong will.