1. difficult problems, questions, or situations
Usage: informal; plural form
2. tough or resilient people
Usage: informal; plural form

Examples

• The math test had several toughies that stumped most students.
• These crossword puzzles are real toughies.
• The coach selected only the toughies for the championship team.
• Those interview questions were toughies, but I managed to answer them.
• The survivors were real toughies who endured harsh conditions.
• The final exam included some toughies from earlier chapters.