as tough as nails
Meaning
Very tough, resilient, or hard to hurt/impress; can also mean physically strong or emotionally hard.
Origin
A simile comparing a person/thing’s toughness to iron nails—hard, durable, difficult to bend or break. Recorded in English from the late 19th to early 20th century.
Notes
Often complimentary (resilient/strong), but can imply someone is hard, unsentimental, or unyielding. Informal and common for people or durable objects.
Examples
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After growing up on a farm, Maya is as tough as nails and never complains about hard work.
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The detective was as tough as nails, but even he looked shaken by the case.
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Don’t worry about Grandma—she’s as tough as nails and will be back on her feet soon.
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The team needed someone as tough as nails to lead them through the final minutes of the game.
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He may look quiet, but he’s as tough as nails when things get stressful.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed simile pattern: “as tough as nails.” Used predicatively (“He’s as tough as nails”) or as a complement (“a guy as tough as nails”). Not usually altered (*as tough as a nail).
Synonyms
- very tough
- hard as nails
- tough as old boots
- rugged
- resilient
Antonyms
- soft
- weak
- fragile
- tender-hearted