tough love
noun
Definition of tough love
: love or affectionate concern expressed in a stern or unsentimental manner (as through discipline) especially to promote responsible behavior
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
1968
First Known Use of tough love
1968
TOUGH LOVE Defined for English Language Learners
tough love
noun
Definition of tough love for English Language Learners
-
: love or concern that is expressed in a strict way especially to make someone behave responsibly
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