toughen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A bipartisan bill released Thursday would toughen penalties against preparers who improperly handle returns.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 27, 2026

Australia's leaders have agreed to toughen laws that allowed Sajid Akram to own six guns.

From Barron's • Dec. 18, 2025

Such prohibitions exist in dozens of states, but many doctors, nurses and policymakers want to toughen them up as a buttress against private equity’s influence in the sector.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 7, 2025

City Section teams continue to struggle against Southern Section opponents in nonleague games, but many are using the strategy Birmingham has used for years to toughen up before league play begins.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 8, 2025

And if he didn’t toughen up, what would happen to him when there was no Trotter to look after him?

From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson