Crossword Genius

It's tough, being caught outright! (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hard

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'it's tough' is the definition.
(synonyms)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for hard that I've seen before include "Firm, rigid, road leading to foreshore" , "Firm; demanding; stern" , "Unyielding" , "Intensely" , "Strenuous" .)

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