a tough guy

tough guy

A particularly strong, resolute, fearless, and independent man who does not show weakness or emotion and does not rely on or bow down to others. Hyphenated if used as a modifier before a noun. The best tough guys in cinema are those who aren't invincible, but find still find a way to win against all odds. John's always putting on this tough-guy façade, but I know that deep down he's a bit of a coward.
See also: guy, tough
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

a ˈtough guy

(informal) a strong, independent-minded person who seems to be afraid of nothing: The most famous ‘tough guy’ in American movies was John Wayne.
See also: guy, tough
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • not for a second
  • not for a minute
  • not for a moment
  • aint
  • ain't
  • not for a instant
  • not for a/one minute/moment/second/instant
  • by no means
  • not by any means
  • (I) hope not
References in periodicals archive
FOR a tough guy, Roy Keane seems to have a thin skin when it comes to Jose Mourinho's slightly early handshake.
KEANE: MY EARLY HANDSHAKE HELL