Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a hard nut to crack (a tough nut to crack)

idiom
ə hɑrd nʌt tə kræk
Definition
A situation or problem that is difficult to deal with or solve.
Examples
  • Finding a solution to this complex issue is a hard nut to crack.
  • Dealing with him can be a tough nut to crack; he doesn’t easily share his thoughts.
Meaning
This phrase means that something is challenging and may require significant effort or cleverness to overcome.
Synonyms
  • a difficult problem
  • a challenging task
  • an unsolvable issue