Harsh & Strict Treatment

to make a difficult or painful situation even worse for someone

I can't believe you would ask me to pay you back on the day that I got laid off.Thanks for rubbing salt in my wounds.

to be tough and smart in negotiations, insisting on favorable terms to achieve a favorable outcome for oneself

The company's prowess in driving a hard bargain has placed severe pressure on suppliers.

an attitude or approach that is cruel, and often unrestricted

They promised that the army would strike with an iron fist at any resistance.

to experience something that is extremely painful or difficult, particularly for a long time

During the war, the soldiers went through hell, facing constant danger and hardship.

to purposefully make someone suffer more than they already do

After the divorce, her friend turned the knife in the wound by saying she had always thought that the marriage wouldn't last.

the use of excessive force, control, or authority in a way that can be harsh or oppressive

The teacher ruled the classroom with a heavy hand, rarely allowing any freedom or creativity.

a person who appears gentle and kind on the outside, but they are firm, resolute, and even ruthless in their actions

The iron hand in the velvet glove approach seems to work best with this age group.