After years of repairing boats, his hands were tough as teak.

Don't underestimate those tough tarts; they're tougher than they look.

He shrugged and told her tough tushie when she complained about the rain.

Don't mess with them — they're tough bananas.

Getting funding for the project was tough sledding.

Voters favored a tough on crime platform that promised stricter sentencing and increased police presence.

Tough break — you missed the last train and had to walk home in the rain.

Losing his job right before the holidays was a tough break for Mark.

The movie portrayed tough guys who unexpectedly showed compassion.

Parents sometimes tough love their children to steer them away from bad habits.