tough luck

/təf lək/
IPA guide

Definitions of tough luck
  1. noun
    an unfortunate state resulting from unfavorable outcomes
    synonyms: bad luck, ill luck, misfortune
    see moresee less
    types:
    show 11 types...
    hide 11 types...
    weakness
    the condition of being financially weak
    adversity, hard knocks, hardship
    a state of misfortune or affliction
    gutter, sewer, toilet
    a state of misfortune resulting in lost effort or money
    hard cheese
    bad luck
    ill-being
    lack of prosperity or happiness or health
    catastrophe, disaster
    a state of extreme (usually irremediable) ruin and misfortune
    extremity
    an extreme condition or state (especially of adversity or disease)
    distress
    a state of adversity (danger or affliction or need)
    affliction
    a state of great suffering and distress due to adversity
    victimisation, victimization
    adversity resulting from being made a victim
    low-water mark, nadir
    an extreme state of adversity; the lowest point of anything
    type of:
    circumstances, destiny, fate, fortune, lot, luck, portion
    your overall circumstances or condition in life (including everything that happens to you)
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘tough luck'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family