1
as in harsh
given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint
the new manager's heavy-handed approach soon had employees turning in their letters of resignation
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in clumsy
lacking or showing a lack of nimbleness in using one's hands
felt heavy-handed and awkward when holding the newborn infant
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of heavy-handed
The danger is heavy-handed protections for Eskom will suppress wholesale prices, dulling market signals investors need for further investment in the sector, and effectively rebranding the old monopoly.
—
Tiisetso Motsoeneng,
semafor.com,
15 June 2026
The judges association came to Dixson’s aid with endorsements, campaign cash and the op-ed — actions Bass views as heavy-handed and political, but Dixson’s supporters said were necessary to protect a judge from unwarranted attacks.
—
Sharon Bernstein,
Sacbee.com,
14 June 2026
Both actors put in a shift here, but this is also where the religious imagery makes its heavy-handed presence known.
—
Ian Stokes,
Space.com,
12 June 2026
The best in the genre are morality tales that deftly mine their themes without getting too heavy-handed, exploring the intricacies of human nature.
—
Eric Farwell,
Entertainment Weekly,
12 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for heavy-handed
Tiisetso Motsoeneng,
semafor.com,
15 June 2026
The judges association came to Dixson’s aid with endorsements, campaign cash and the op-ed — actions Bass views as heavy-handed and political, but Dixson’s supporters said were necessary to protect a judge from unwarranted attacks.
—
Sharon Bernstein,
Sacbee.com,
14 June 2026
Both actors put in a shift here, but this is also where the religious imagery makes its heavy-handed presence known.
—
Ian Stokes,
Space.com,
12 June 2026
The best in the genre are morality tales that deftly mine their themes without getting too heavy-handed, exploring the intricacies of human nature.
—
Eric Farwell,
Entertainment Weekly,
12 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for heavy-handed
Recent Examples of Synonyms for heavy-handed
Adjective
-
White settlers and frontier pioneers built vast, fenceless cattle stations, battling harsh environments and disease, embracing a hard-living culture that exists to this day.
-
Dish Soap Using harsh chemicals on the outside of your toilet bowl and fixtures is not recommended, according to Meagher.
Adjective
-
Such a feature would neatly get around the need for clumsy remote control sessions to interact with AI agents running on a distant Mac.
-
The head coach was clumsy in his response, saying — in effect — that the player is better suited to being an impact substitute and taking advantage of tiring opposition defenders.
Adjective
-
California has strict fireworks laws because of the combination of fire danger and population, Berlant said.
-
In whatever role, expect Teng to be on a strict innings limit and pitch count for his next few outings at Triple-A Sugar Land.
Adjective
-
Human bodies were like animals’ The few medical instruments of the revolutionary era were heavy in the hand, awkward in use and imprecise to maneuver.
-
In its place are itty-bitty bands that still keep your flats or heels in place, just with less of a chance of awkward tan lines.
Adjective
-
In the nation’s gravest hour, the country’s authoritarian regime has crippled an effective response, say survivors, rescue workers and former officials.
-
Some are fleeing authoritarian regimes, war or natural disasters.
Adjective
-
MacDonald agrees that some of Kiros' positions could put Democratic candidates in a tough spot.
-
The 34 measures include cuts to income tax for low- and middle income families, an overhaul of the creaking pension system, tougher rules for employees' sick leave and a reduction of the country's stifling bureaucracy.
Adjective
-
Every cybersecurity article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors.
-
This improves both customer and agent experience, while still meeting rigorous business standards around accuracy, reliability, and risk management.
Adjective
-
England, which has been patchy so far, poses the sternest test yet for the co-hosts.
-
With upcoming opponents Croatia providing a sterner test in possession, Portugal’s defensive display will be under greater scrutiny.
Cite this Entry
“Heavy-handed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/heavy-handed. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
