Tough it out
/tʌf ɪt ˈaʊt/informalUK · US
What does “Tough it out” mean?
Tough it out means to endure a difficult situation without giving up
A wet camping trip might tempt you to go home. If you stay until morning despite the discomfort, you tough it out.
The phrase praises endurance, but does not prove that staying is sensible. It is not helpful advice when someone needs support or is in danger.
When do people say it?
Use it for continuing through discomfort or difficulty. Telling someone else to tough it out can sound unsympathetic.
“The tent leaked, but we toughed it out until morning.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
“Tough” suggests being able to withstand difficulty. “It out” gives the phrase the sense of lasting through the situation.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Tough it out” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-04