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

The spokesman also said the independent review would explore "how we can go even further to toughen up the safeguards in place against illicit money from abroad", including cryptocurrencies.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2026

This week, Japan's new environment minister vowed to toughen bear controls, including by "training government hunters".

From Barron's • Oct. 25, 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

Once I even caught him talking to them, telling this sickly-looking fern that it better toughen up if it wanted to make it in the world.

From "Miracle's Boys" by Jacqueline Woodson