The phrase “more than tough” indicates a degree of difficulty or harshness that exceeds what is typically considered tough. A synonym for “more than tough” could be “exceptionally formidable”. This term implies that something is extremely difficult to deal with or overcome. For example, an exceptionally formidable opponent in a sports competition is one who poses a great challenge and is hard to defeat.
Another synonym is “incredibly arduous”. “Arduous” means involving a lot of effort and difficulty, and adding “incredibly” emphasizes that the task or situation is even more strenuous. For instance, climbing a high mountain with difficult terrain can be incredibly arduous.
“extraordinarily challenging” is also a fitting synonym. It suggests that something is highly demanding and tests one’s abilities to the limit. For example, solving a complex scientific problem can be extraordinarily challenging.
All of these synonyms for “more than tough” convey a sense of extreme difficulty and the need for great determination and effort to succeed.