tough nut

NOUN

tough nut to crack

Synonyms

STRONG

enigma mystery perplexity puzzler riddle

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.

I am expecting West Ham to play with the kind of intensity that is required but Everton can be a tough nut to crack.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Getafe, seventh, often prove a tough nut to crack at home and they frustrated their neighbours.

From Barron's • Nov. 23, 2025

Dave is a tough nut to crack, no matter what anyone thinks they know.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 12, 2023

AUSTIN, TEXAS—For canaries, learning to eat seeds can be a tough nut to crack.

From Science Magazine • Jan. 12, 2023

There was no way to share such a tough nut of sweetness.

From "The Birchbark House" by Louise Erdrich