hang tough

Idioms

Remain firmly resolved, as in We're going to hang tough on this point and not give in. This slangy idiom uses tough in the sense of “aggressively unyielding,” a usage dating from the first half of the 1900s.

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.

Djokovic proved he could still hang tough with the next generation over five sets when he recovered to beat Alcaraz on Tuesday.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2025

Morgan State: With leading scorer Wynston Tabbs injured, the Bears were still able to hang tough in a rare opportunity against a ranked team at home.

From Washington Times • Dec. 22, 2023

“We’ve got to hang tough, we’ve got to keep working at our game in all three phases. And if we do that, then you’re going to see good football from this team.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 27, 2023

“We’ve been able to hang tough together and get going and then finish the game playing our best.”

From Seattle Times • Nov. 7, 2022

“Maybe ... maybe you’re stronger than the others—that’s why you haven’t died. Just hang tough, man. Wait it out.You’ll ...” Empty words.

From "The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin)" by James Dashner

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023