Crossword Genius

It's tough at the rear (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stern

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'it's tough' is the first definition.
(both can mean strict or severe)

'the rear' is the second definition.
(the stern is the rear of a boat)

'at' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for stern that I've seen before include "Tail of a beagle" , "Rigorous - back of boat" , "Severe -- back of boat" , "Unpleasantly serious" , "Where sailors may be" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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