1 B1 idiomatic neutral
to become mentally or emotionally stronger and better able to deal with difficulty
"Living abroad on her own really toughened her up."
inseparable
toughen up
B1 neutral mixed transitive/intransitive
to become stronger, less easily hurt, or more able to deal with difficult situations
In plain English
become stronger and harder to upset or hurt
What does "toughen up" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
to make someone stronger, stricter, or less sensitive
"The coach tried to toughen the squad up before the final."
separable
3 B1 neutral
to become physically stronger or more resistant
"These hiking trips will toughen you up in no time."
mixed
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to make something tough or to become tough, with 'up' adding the idea of increase or development
Actually means
become stronger and harder to upset or hurt
Usage tip
Often used for mental or physical strength. In direct commands like 'Toughen up!', it can sound unsympathetic.
Words that pair with "toughen up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
skin attitude mind team players training
How to conjugate "toughen up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
toughen up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
toughens up
he/she/it
Past simple
toughened up
yesterday
Past participle
toughened up
have + pp
-ing form
toughening up
continuous
Hear "toughen up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "toughen up"
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