A tough break Meaning in English
expression
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈtəf/ /ˈbɹeɪk
uh TUHF BRAYK
æɪ/ /tˈʌf/ /bɹˈeɪk
uh TUHF BRAYK
Definition
An informal expression used to describe an unfortunate or unlucky situation, especially when something bad happens unexpectedly.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal, often used to show sympathy after bad luck. Common in spoken English. Not used to describe severe tragedy—more for everyday misfortunes, like losing a job. Similar to 'that's unlucky' or 'that's rough.'
Spanish: un golpe duro - mala suertePortuguese (BR): um golpe difícil - má sortePortuguese (PT): um duro revés - azarChinese (Simplified): 倒霉的事 - 厄运Chinese (Traditional): 倒楣的事 - 厄運Hindi: मुश्किल समय - बदकिस्मतीArabic: حظ سيئ - موقف صعبBengali: খারাপ ভাগ্য - দুর্ভাগ্য - অপ্রত্যাশিত সমস্যাRussian: невезение - неудача - обломJapanese: 運が悪いこと - ツイてないことVietnamese: xui xẻo - vận đen - không mayKorean: 운이 안 좋음 - 안 좋은 일Turkish: talihsizlik - şanssızlıkUrdu: بدقسمتی - برا وقتIndonesian: kesialan - nasib buruk - apes
Example Sentences
Losing your wallet was a tough break.
basic
Not getting the job is a tough break.
basic
Missing the bus was a tough break this morning.
basic
That's a tough break, but you'll bounce back soon.
natural
You trained so hard—what a tough break to get injured now.
natural
Sometimes life gives you a tough break, but don't give up.
natural