tough love
noun
: love or affectionate concern expressed in a stern or unsentimental manner (as through discipline) especially to promote responsible behavior
Examples of tough love in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The tough love from Spoelstra, Dragic told Jovic, is a sign of respect.
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Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2025
Next How Patrick Peterson became the mentor who will build a bridge to Joey Porter Jr.
At 33, Peterson is sharing the tough love and guidance that shaped him with the rookie who might eventually take his job.
—Doug Haller, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
But what starts as a calculated move to secure her fortune turns into an emotional journey, as M must navigate her tough love, difficult demands, and the growing rivalry from other family members hoping for the same payday.
—Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
Along the way to that game, Tonia Jones balanced tough love with her maternal instinct.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2025
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Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2025
Next How Patrick Peterson became the mentor who will build a bridge to Joey Porter Jr.
At 33, Peterson is sharing the tough love and guidance that shaped him with the rookie who might eventually take his job.
—Doug Haller, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
But what starts as a calculated move to secure her fortune turns into an emotional journey, as M must navigate her tough love, difficult demands, and the growing rivalry from other family members hoping for the same payday.
—Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
Along the way to that game, Tonia Jones balanced tough love with her maternal instinct.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for tough love
Cite this Entry
“Tough love.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tough%20love. Accessed 16 May. 2025.
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