Pronunciation: [tˈʌf lˈʌk] (IPA) 
The phrase "tough luck" is commonly used to express sympathy or disappointment, but the spelling of this word may be a bit tricky. The word "tough" uses the phonetic transcription /tʌf/, while "luck" is pronounced as /lʌk/. The similarity of the vowels in both words may lead to confusion. However, remembering that "tough" is spelled with an "o" and "luck" is spelled with a "u" is a useful way to prevent misspellings of this phrase.
Tough luck is an idiomatic expression that is used to convey sympathy or empathy towards someone who has encountered an unfortunate or unfavorable situation. This phrase is often used to express the idea that the person's plight or misfortune is beyond their control or that they have had a stroke of bad luck.
The term "tough luck" can be considered a casual way of acknowledging someone's difficult circumstances without offering any specific remedy or solution. It implies that the situation is unfortunate, but there is little that can be done to change it. The phrase is commonly used in response to disappointing news, setbacks, or other adverse events that might have occurred to someone.
Additionally, "tough luck" can also be used in a lighthearted or sarcastic manner to dismiss someone's complaints or grievances, usually when the person's problems are perceived as minor or insignificant in comparison to others.
In summary, tough luck is an expression that recognizes an individual's unfortunate circumstances and acknowledges that they have encountered bad luck or an undesirable outcome. It conveys sympathy or empathy, highlighting that the situation is beyond their control or that it was simply a result of unfortunate circumstances.
The phrase "tough luck" originated in the United States in the early 19th century.
The word "tough" has been used to describe something difficult or challenging since the 16th century. It is believed to have derived from the Middle English word "tough", meaning difficult to chew or cut. Over time, "tough" evolved to mean mentally or physically strong, which is the sense used in "tough luck".
The word "luck" traces its roots back to the Old High German word "gelücke", meaning happiness or good fortune. The term was later adopted into Middle Dutch as "lucke" and Middle English as "luck".
When combined, "tough luck" is used to express sympathy in an unsympathetic or dismissive manner when someone encounters unfortunate circumstances or experiences misfortune.
