cut some slack
- forgiveCease to blame
- lenientTolerant of faults
- ease upBecome less intense
- breakInterrupt continuity
- mercyCompassion toward offenders
understanding · patience · overlook · excuse · relax · breathing room · benefit of doubt · compassion · leeway · grace · pardon · tolerance · lighten up · second chance · empathy · flexibility · kindness · leniency
leniency vs. strictness
cut some slackcrack down on
Enforce rules harshly
hold to account · throw the book at · read the riot act · take to task · hold someone's feet to the fire
supportiveness vs. criticism
cut some slackjump down someone's throat
Respond with sudden hostility
give someone a hard time · chew out · pile on · berate · rake over the coals
pressure release vs. pressure application
cut some slackturn up the heat
Intensify effort or coercion
micromanage · breathe down someone's neck · crack the whip · squeeze · apply pressure