The phrase "hang tough" is written with the letter 'h' at the beginning, followed by the vowel sound 'æ' as in 'cat', represented by the letters 'a' and 'ng' forming the consonant cluster /ŋ/. The word 'tough' has the vowel sound /ʌ/ as in 'cup', also represented by the letter 'u' and ends with the voiceless /f/ sound represented by the letter 'gh'. Altogether, "hang tough" is pronounced as /hæŋ tʌf/, meaning to remain determined and persistent.
The phrase "hang tough" is an idiomatic expression that originated in American English. It can be used as a verb phrase or an imperative command. When used as a verb phrase, "hang tough" means to remain resolute, determined, and unwavering in the face of adversity, difficulty, or challenging situations. It implies staying strong and not giving up, even in challenging circumstances. It is often associated with enduring hardships or maintaining one's resolve under pressure.
The phrase can also convey an underlying sense of perseverance and resilience. It suggests having the mental and emotional fortitude to withstand challenges and setbacks without losing hope or surrendering to the difficulties at hand. "Hang tough" encourages individuals to remain steady, persistent, and tenacious in the pursuit of their goals or the resolution of a problem.
Furthermore, "hang tough" can also be used as an imperative command, serving as an encouragement or advice to someone, urging them to stay strong and endure the trials they may be facing. It is often used in motivational or supportive contexts, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the belief that one has the capacity to overcome whatever obstacles may come their way.
In summary, "hang tough" encapsulates the idea of staying determined and unwavering in challenging circumstances, suggesting the need for mental and emotional strength, perseverance, and resilience in order to endure and overcome adversity.
The phrase "hang tough" is believed to have its origins in early English. The word "hang" comes from Old English "hangian", which means "to suspend or support something from above". It eventually evolved into its current meaning of "to hold on or cling to something".
The word "tough" has its roots in Middle English "tough", which signifies "strong" or "resilient". It is derived from the Old English word "toh", meaning "difficult" or "challenging". As the meaning of "tough" evolved, it came to represent someone or something demonstrating strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
The combination of "hang" and "tough" in the phrase "hang tough" refers to the act of persevering, enduring, or staying determined in challenging or difficult situations. It is often used to encourage someone to remain strong and not give up.