English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "he's a tough nut to crack" Mean?
Learn what "he's a tough nut to crack" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Neutral
Explain
English Phrases for Work
Her father Nicholas. He's a tough nut to crack.
It means the person is difficult to understand, persuade, or deal with.
From The Unforgettable Love, Episode 36
When do people say this?
Scene Context
Someone describes another person as hard to understand or deal with.
Usage Scenario
Use this for someone who is stubborn, private, or hard to read. It is common in spoken English but less useful as a direct action phrase.
Better ways to say it
1
He's a tough nut to crack.
2
She's a tough nut to crack.
3
He's hard to figure out.
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