The term 'HARD-___ (TOUGH)' can be completed with two five-letter words: 'NOSED' and 'EDGED'. The term 'hard-nosed' is used to describe someone who is tough, determined, and unyielding in their approach. It is often used to describe a person who is not easily swayed by emotions or sentimentality. The term 'hard-EDGED' is also used to describe someone who is tough and uncompromising. It is often used to describe someone who is unemotional and has a no-nonsense attitude. Both terms are used to describe someone who is difficult to deal with and is not easily persuaded.