toughen

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.

As the demonstrators toughen their demands, the standoff with the government has escalated.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

A bipartisan bill released Thursday would toughen penalties against preparers who improperly handle returns.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 27, 2026

Further, it said it would establish direct points of contact with Canadian law-enforcement officials, help direct users in distress to relevant local support agencies, and toughen its detection system to prevent attempts to evade safeguards.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

City Section teams continue to struggle against Southern Section opponents in nonleague games, but many are using the strategy Birmingham has used for years to toughen up before league play begins.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 8, 2025

He didn't say stop crying, or toughen up.

From "When I Was the Greatest" by Jason Reynolds