All idioms
idiom

tough love

TUF LUV

tʌf lʌv

Listen

Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.

Syllable breakdown

toughlove

Dictionary meaning

Firmly enforcing boundaries or consequences out of genuine care, even when it is painful.

Examples

  • The counsellor recommended a tough love approach to help the teenager take responsibility.

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