crack the whip
phrase
: to adopt or apply an authoritative, tyrannical, or threatening approach or policy (as in demanding harder work from employees)
The team needs a coach who isn't afraid to crack the whip.
Cite this Entry
“Crack the whip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crack%20the%20whip. Accessed 19 Dec. 2025.
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