tough gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tough gaze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look or expression that conveys strength, determination, or intensity, often in a challenging or confrontational context. Example: "She met his tough gaze with unwavering confidence, refusing to back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

LaGuardia looked disheveled and fixed them with a tough gaze.

The New Yorker

The bar deteriorated without Pierre's stern and tough gaze.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

WHEN President Bush was here last week, he talked tough, gazing across the demilitarized zone into North Korea, a charter member of his "axis of evil".

The New York Times

"So, d'you miss him?" The voice holds the usual smile, but Marko's gaze is tough.

The Guardian - Books

Since my face was scarlet from my fever, and the conjunctivitis had really blossomed, Glenn had the tougher of the gazing gigs.

Huffington Post

Getting a place to live in was tough, there was the unrelenting gaze of the landlord and neighbours to contend with, and male friends visiting them were a no-no.

BBC

All traces of the indecision that had marred the first months of his premiership had vanished: this was a big, tough man – a leader, with his gaze fixed on the verdict of history.

Independent

Since I am a tough staring contest opponent, I kept my gaze locked as I extended my hand and made the introductions.

Vice

Wielding an axe and decked in full lumberjack gear, Offerman's steely gaze will pierce through even the toughest of doubters.

Huffington Post

Gallen Symposium will take up the theme under the headline The dilemma of disruption, looking at the breeding grounds for radical change, assessing the tough decisions that come with it and directing participants' gaze beyond the strict business definition.

Huffington Post

Whose gaze?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tough gaze" to describe a look that conveys determination, strength, or a challenging attitude. It's effective in portraying characters who are resilient or confrontational.

Common error

Avoid using "tough gaze" when a softer or more understanding expression is needed. The phrase implies a level of intensity that may not be appropriate in all situations. Consider using alternatives like "attentive gaze" or "concerned look" when a less confrontational tone is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tough gaze" functions primarily as a noun phrase where "tough" modifies the noun "gaze". This construction describes a specific quality or characteristic of someone's look. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tough gaze" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that effectively conveys a sense of strength, determination, or resilience in someone's look. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from reputable sources like The New Yorker and The New York Times. While its usage is not extremely common, it is primarily found in news and media contexts. When using "tough gaze", consider the specific nuance you want to convey, as it implies a level of intensity that may not be appropriate in all situations. Alternatives like "stern look" or "intense gaze" can offer similar meanings with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stern look

Focuses on the severity and seriousness of the expression.

hard stare

Emphasizes the intensity and unwavering nature of the look.

piercing look

Highlights the penetrating and insightful quality of the gaze.

intense gaze

Stresses the high degree of concentration and emotion in the look.

steely glare

Suggests a cold, determined and unwavering expression.

severe expression

Highlights the strict and uncompromising nature of the facial expression.

grim look

Emphasizes the forbidding and somber nature of the expression.

determined gaze

Focuses on the resolute and purposeful quality of the look.

unyielding stare

Stresses the firmness and unwavering nature of the gaze.

unflinching gaze

Highlights the steadiness and lack of hesitation in the look.

FAQs

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

You can use "tough gaze" to describe someone's expression, such as: "The detective fixed the suspect with a tough gaze, waiting for him to crack." It suggests a stern and unwavering look.

What are some synonyms for "tough gaze"?

Alternatives include "stern look", "hard stare", or "intense gaze". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tough gaze" formal or informal?

"Tough gaze" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal writing, though it's more common in descriptive or narrative contexts.

What's the difference between "tough gaze" and "cold gaze"?

While both suggest an intense look, "tough gaze" implies determination or resilience, whereas "cold gaze" suggests a lack of emotion or empathy. The choice depends on the character's emotional state and intention.