A hard/tough nut

usgb
noun

A problem that is very hard to solve or a person who is difficult to understand.

My math homework is a tough nut to crack.
Visual representation of "a hard/tough nut" - A problem that is very hard to solve or a person who is difficult to understand.

Often appears as...

  • a tough nut to crack
  • a hard nut to crack

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "a hard/tough nut"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Use

Used metaphorically to denote something very challenging, not literally a tough nut.

Illustration for Figurative Use
Quantum physics is a tough nut to crack for many students.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literally Hard

'Hard' signifies complexity or resistance, not physical hardness.

Illustration for Not Literally Hard
The riddle she posed was a truly hard nut to crack.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Common Collocations

Often used with 'crack', suggesting the effort to understand or solve something.

Illustration for Common Collocations
Understanding the tax code can be a hard nut to crack.
Visual representation of the word "A hard/tough nut"

Never forget "A hard/tough nut"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top