get-tough

American  

[get-tuhf] / ˈgɛtˈtʌf /

adjective

1. characterized by firmness, determination, aggressiveness, or severity.

   a get-tough policy.

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Etymology

Origin of get-tough

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

The get-tough approach still has proponents, but critics argued that it increased the number of dropouts while providing too little benefit.

From Los Angeles Times

The effect was especially pronounced on immigration, where the Tories’ get-tough approach mimics Reform not entirely convincingly.

From The Wall Street Journal

Although the decline began before the latest policy changes, this get-tough approach has been cited as one of the reasons for the city's success.

From BBC

He frequently made headlines during the election campaign for his get-tough attitude with Donald Trump and the US president's trade war.

From BBC

The California survey struck a different tone than several national polls that have found the American public is generally supportive of the Trump administration’s get-tough immigration policies.

From Los Angeles Times