Pronunciation: [tˈʌfən ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "toughen up" is spelled with the letter "o" in "tough" to represent the "uh" sound (represented in the International Phonetic Alphabet as /ʌ/), followed by the letters "e-n" to represent the "en" sound (/ɛn/) in "toughen," and finally the letters "u-p" for the "up" sound (/ʌp/) in "up." The phrase means to become stronger or more resilient to difficult situations or challenges.
The phrase "toughen up" is an idiomatic expression which means to become stronger, both emotionally and mentally, in order to handle difficult situations or challenges with resilience and determination. It implies the development of a thicker skin or a greater ability to withstand adversity, criticism, or hardship.
In its literal sense, to "toughen up" can refer to physical conditioning or training to increase endurance, stamina, or strength. However, the figurative meaning of the phrase primarily relates to personal growth and mental fortitude. It suggests the need to become more self-reliant, less susceptible to emotional vulnerability, and better equipped to face life's challenges head-on.
This idiomatic phrase often carries an underlying message of encouragement or advice to someone who may be perceived as lacking resilience or appearing weak in the face of adversity. It implies the need for a person to become more assertive, determined, and self-assured. "Toughen up" does not necessarily imply suppressing emotions, but rather cultivating the ability to handle setbacks, criticism, or stress in a constructive and positive manner.
To "toughen up" is a call for personal growth and transformation, and it emphasizes the importance of resilience and a tenacious attitude in order to navigate life's difficulties successfully. It denotes the development of inner strength, resolve, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks, ultimately leading to personal empowerment and a greater capacity to face and overcome challenges.
The word "toughen up" is a compound phrase that combines the adjective "tough" with the verb "en" and the particle "up". The term "tough" can be traced back to the Middle English word "tough", which meant "difficult to break or cut". It is thought to originate from the Old English word "toh", meaning "tough, tenacious, viscous". The word "en" is a productive verbing suffix used to indicate the process of becoming a specific quality or state. Additionally, "up" is a particle commonly used to denote an increase in intensity or a strengthening of a particular trait. Therefore, when people say "toughen up", they are encouraging someone to become stronger, more resilient, or more durable.
