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Synonyms

tough-minded

American  
[tuhf-mahyn-did] / ˈtʌfˈmaɪn dɪd /

adjective

  1. characterized by a practical, unsentimental attitude or point of view.

  2. strong-willed; vigorous; not easily swayed.


tough-minded British  

adjective

  1. practical, unsentimental, stern or intractable

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of tough-minded

First recorded in 1905–10


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

In the 1970s, when they won their only two NBA titles, the Knicks were known as a "blue-collar, hard-working, tough-minded team," according to Adam Criblez, author of a book on the squad.

From Barron's ● Jun. 7, 2026

The very readable, if long and winding, “The Calamity Club” focuses on a crew of frequently ill-used, tough-minded white women.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 15, 2026

“Yeah. I mean, he’s obviously a tough-minded player and person,” Redick said.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 6, 2026

G DeShawn Harris-Smith, Maryland, 6-5, 215: Heralded as a tough-minded and fearless player, the stat-sheet stuffer from Woodbridge, Virginia, led his team to the state title last season.

From Washington Times ● Oct. 25, 2023

And I tell myself I'm proud of myself for being so mentally strong, so tough-minded.

From "Things Not Seen" by Andrew Clements

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