tough it out

USAGE SUMMARY

"tough it out" is a correct, usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to advise someone to be resilient in a difficult situation. For example, "I know it's hard, but try to tough it out and stay positive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

would "tough it out".

The New Yorker

We have to tough it out".

Independent

Just tough it out, I guess".

The New York Times

You just tough it out".

The New York Times - Sports

Could I just tough it out?

The Guardian - Music

Why must they "tough it out"?

The New York Times - Tech

"We just have to tough it out," he said.

The New York Times

We should tough it out if we can.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The tough-it-out rule.

The New York Times

"It was a grind-it-out, tough-it-out game.

The New York Times - Sports

Claimed Tough It Out by Rockingham Ranch.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tough it out" to convey resilience in the face of adversity, especially when encouraging someone to persevere through a difficult but temporary situation.

Common error

While "toughing it out" implies resilience, it's essential not to equate it with neglecting necessary medical, professional, or emotional support. Seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "tough it out" is as an idiomatic phrasal verb. It functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, conveying the action of enduring or persevering through a difficult situation. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is commonly used to advise resilience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Sport

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tough it out" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to express the idea of enduring a difficult situation with resilience and determination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to encourage perseverance. The phrase is frequently found in news and media sources, but it also appears in more informal contexts, such as Wiki articles. While "tough it out" suggests strength, it's important to remember that seeking help when needed is also a sign of strength. Alternatives like "persevere", "endure", and "weather the storm" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Ultimately, understanding the context is key to using the phrase appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persevere

This alternative emphasizes continuing despite difficulties, focusing on sustained effort.

endure

This emphasizes bearing hardship patiently and withstanding difficulties over a prolonged period.

weather the storm

This idiom suggests navigating through a difficult period until it passes, focusing on overcoming challenges.

stand firm

This phrase means to maintain one's position or resolve, suggesting unwavering commitment.

hold on

This is a general expression of encouragement to persevere through a difficult time.

hang in there

Similar to "hold on", this phrase is an encouraging way to advise someone to persevere through difficulty.

stay the course

This emphasizes continuing on a chosen path despite obstacles, highlighting commitment to a goal.

stick with it

This implies remaining dedicated to a task or goal, despite challenges or setbacks.

bear with it

Suggests patiently tolerating an unpleasant or difficult situation.

grin and bear it

This idiom implies accepting a difficult situation with forced cheerfulness, focusing on stoic endurance.

FAQs

How can I use "tough it out" in a sentence?

You can use "tough it out" to encourage someone to persevere through a challenging situation. For example, "I know it's difficult, but we need to "tough it out" until the project is finished."

What does "tough it out" mean?

"Tough it out" means to endure a difficult or unpleasant situation with determination and resilience, without giving up.

Which is the correct way to express persistence, "tough it out" or "rough it out"?

"Tough it out" means to persevere through a difficult situation. "Rough it out" refers to living without the usual comforts or conveniences.

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "tough it out"?

It's appropriate when someone is facing a temporary challenge or setback that requires perseverance. However, avoid using it when someone is dealing with serious health issues, abuse, or situations where seeking help is necessary.