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tough love

noun

Definition of tough love

  1. :  love or affectionate concern expressed in a stern or unsentimental manner (as through discipline) especially to promote responsible behavior

See tough love defined for English-language learners

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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

Learn More about tough love

  1. See words that rhyme with tough love

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