English Expression · Intermediate
tough love
The compassionate use of stringent disciplinary measures, to attempt to improve someone's behavior
Pronunciation: say tough love
Meaning
The compassionate use of stringent disciplinary measures, to attempt to improve someone's behavior.
Example
[W]hen it came to Latin America's economic travails, Bush adhered to the principle of tough love: no more bailouts.
[W]hen it came to Latin America's economic travails, Bush adhered to the principle of tough love: no more bailouts.
Practice tips
- Practice tough love out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.