TOUGH BREAK Meaning and
Definition
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Tough break is an idiomatic expression that refers to a difficult or unfortunate situation or event that a person experiences, often through no fault of their own. It is typically used to convey sympathy or empathy towards someone who has had a stroke of bad luck or faced a setback.
The term "tough" in this context suggests that the situation is challenging or demanding, while "break" implies a stroke of misfortune or an adverse turn of events. When combined, "tough break" emphasizes the negativity of the circumstances or the hardship faced by an individual.
Examples of situations that can be described as a tough break include losing a job due to company downsizing, failing an important exam despite diligent preparation, or suffering an injury just before a crucial sports competition. The phrase is commonly used in informal conversations and sympathetic exchanges to acknowledge and empathize with the difficulties someone is facing.
Overall, "tough break" encapsulates the idea of an unfortunate event or a string of misfortunes that can impact a person's life or plans, making it more challenging for them to achieve their goals or overcome obstacles.
Common Misspellings for TOUGH BREAK
- rough break
- fough break
- gough break
- yough break
- 6ough break
- 5ough break
- tiugh break
- tkugh break
- tlugh break
- tpugh break
- t0ugh break
- t9ugh break
- toygh break
- tohgh break
- tojgh break
- toigh break
- to8gh break
- to7gh break
- toufh break
Etymology of TOUGH BREAK
The phrase "tough break" is a colloquial expression that originated in American English in the early 20th century. The etymology of this phrase can be understood by examining the meanings of its individual components.
1. Tough: The word "tough" originated from Middle English "tough", meaning strong or resilient. It eventually evolved to refer to something difficult, challenging, or demanding. In the context of "tough break", it signifies a situation that is unfortunate or unfavorable.
2. Break: In this context, "break" refers to an event or circumstance that unfolds, often out of one's control, resulting in a negative outcome. The term "break" implies a disruptive or unfortunate turn of events.
When combined, "tough break" serves as a sympathetic expression used to convey empathy or commiseration for someone experiencing a difficult situation beyond their control.
Idioms with the word TOUGH BREAK
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tough break
Tough break is an idiom used to describe a difficult or unfortunate situation or circumstance that someone has experienced. It conveys sympathy or understanding for the person's hardship.
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