1 B1 idiomatic informal
To become or make emotionally stronger, less sensitive to difficulty or criticism.
"You'll need to harden up if you want to survive in such a competitive industry."
inseparable
harden up
B1 informal inseparable transitive/intransitive
To become tougher, stronger, or more resilient, physically or emotionally.
In plain English
To become stronger or less sensitive — in your body or your feelings.
What does "harden up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To become physically harder or more solid (of a substance).
"Leave the epoxy to harden up for at least two hours before sanding."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral
To make a position, policy, or attitude more firm, strict, or uncompromising.
"Public opinion hardened up against further tax increases after the scandal."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To become more solid or rigid in physical form.
Actually means
To become stronger or less sensitive — in your body or your feelings.
Usage tip
Used both literally (a material becoming harder) and figuratively (a person becoming emotionally tougher). The figurative sense is common in Australian and New Zealand informal English. Can be used as a command.
Words that pair with "harden up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
attitude resolve position concrete stance skin
How to conjugate "harden up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
harden up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hardens up
he/she/it
Past simple
hardened up
yesterday
Past participle
hardened up
have + pp
-ing form
hardening up
continuous
Hear "harden up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "harden up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.