English phrase from drama scenes
What Does "he's smart he's tough as nails" Mean?
Learn what "he's smart he's tough as nails" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.
Intermediate
Neutral
Explain
English Phrases for Work
He's smart he's tough as nails.
It means the person is very strong, resilient, and hard to defeat or intimidate.
From The Chauffeur, Episode 24
When do people say this?
Scene Context
Someone is praising a man as intelligent and very tough.
Usage Scenario
Use this to describe someone who handles pressure well or seems emotionally and physically tough. It is informal and sounds natural in spoken English.
Better ways to say it
1
He's smart and tough as nails.
2
He's very tough.
3
He's strong and smart.
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