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
In a display of tough love, Anne kicks her out, urging her to trust her motherly instincts and not doubt herself.
—
Erin Jensen, USA Today, 28 May 2026
Sometimes, that translates to a bit of tough love.
—Marta Balaga, Variety, 18 May 2026
Some viewers took Sharon’s critique as tough love that prompted necessary introspection about why their natural texture is concealed and manipulated so often.
—Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 14 May 2026
Isaac doled out tough love and unwavering support in equal doses.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 4 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for tough love
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Erin Jensen, USA Today, 28 May 2026
Sometimes, that translates to a bit of tough love.
—Marta Balaga, Variety, 18 May 2026
Some viewers took Sharon’s critique as tough love that prompted necessary introspection about why their natural texture is concealed and manipulated so often.
—Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 14 May 2026
Isaac doled out tough love and unwavering support in equal doses.
—Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 4 May 2026
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 6 Jun. 2026.
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