26984 words

toughen

3 definitions • 6 examples
1
to make something or someone tough, strong, or stronger:

Examples:

The UN announced its intentions to toughen sanctions still further.
The government wants to toughen (up) the existing drug laws/controls.
His time in the army certainly toughened him up.
Car windows are usually made from toughened glass.
2
to become difficult to deal with:

Examples:

Amid toughening competition in the market, many firms are going out of business.
3
to make someone or something tough, strong, or stronger:

Examples:

They’re going to toughen existing traffic laws.

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