Crossword Genius

Tough but very much present! (2,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

so there

'tough' is the definition.
(both are defiant exclamations)

'very much present' is the wordplay.
'very much' becomes 'so'.
'present' becomes 'there' (I've seen this before).
'so'+'there'='SO THERE'

'but' is the link.

(Other definitions for so there that I've seen before include "Defiant words" , "Defiant statement" , "Derisive expression" , "Triumphant put-down" , "message of defiance" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.