Silicon nitride-based ceramic tools are considered ideal for cutting high-temperature alloys because of their superior hardness, wear resistance and high-temperature stability. However, their lack of toughness limits wider applications. To overcome these challenges, researchers have introduced a variety of reinforced phases into the Si₃N₄-based ceramic tool material system to enhance its comprehensive mechanical properties, and these studies provide theoretical guidance for the design and application of Si₃N₄-based ceramic tools. In this paper, a detailed review of domestic and foreign for Si₃N₄-based ceramic tool material toughening methods, especially focusing on summarizing the improvement effects and mechanisms of various reinforced phases relative to Si₃N₄-based ceramic tool material mechanical properties; on this basis, this paper summarizes the current status of the application of Si₃N₄-based ceramic tools in cutting hightemperature alloys in recent years, and the research direction of Si₃N₄-based ceramic tool material system and tool cutting performance is prospected.