Synonyms

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.

Market commentators typically advise investors to hang tough during periods of volatility like this one.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2025

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

In a world of resurgent authoritarianism and racism and antisemitism, let's all hang tough for American democracy.

From Salon • Jul. 16, 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