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.

Toughening up the dress made it feel, to me, like armor: concealing more than it showed, feminine but not obviously sexy.

From Salon • Jun. 12, 2026

Toughening the California border in the 1990s pushed illegal traffic eastward into Arizona, but lately crossings have dropped there, too.

From Washington Post • Jun. 4, 2018

Toughening global competition makes many workers fear that if they win raises big enough to force price boosts, they will lose out to lower-wage foreign labor.

From Time Magazine Archive

Toughening his face by marinating it in brine, hardening his jaw by chomping pine gum, Dempsey set out hoboing across the West and brawling in saloons.

From Time Magazine Archive

Toughening their attitudes, the Allies emphasized Cordell Hull's warning that neutrals must abandon munitions trade with Germany or face the consequences.

From Time Magazine Archive