strong-handed
Rules with iron
Strong-handed describes the use of force or firm authority, often with a suggestion of excess.
A strong-handed leader maintains strict control.
Strong-handed tactics may get results but risk resentment.
The term sits between firm and heavy-handed, implying resolve that may or may not be appropriate to the situation.
Exerting strong authority
- decisiveQuick to conclude
- assertiveConfidently self-assured
- firmSolid or resolute
- masterfulHighly skilled and authoritative
directive · executive · governing · leader · influential · magisterial · sovereign · headship
Inspiring fear or unease
- bullyingAggressive repeated intimidation
- threateningExpressing intent to harm
- pressuringExerting influence to compel
- compellingPowerfully engaging or persuasive
manipulative · demanding · insistent · iron-fisted · arm-twisting · railroading · browbeating · steamrolling
Arrogantly dominating in manner
- bossyToo fond of directing others
- controllingExerting authority over others
- dictatorialImposing absolute control
- autocraticRuling with absolute authority
imperious · despotic · tyrannical · dominating · overpowering · subjugating · monopolizing · suppressing
Having great strength
- vigorousHaving great physical energy
- dynamicActive and changing
- energeticHaving much vigor
- potentHaving great effect
robust · muscular · gripping · clenching · tight-fisted · physical · brute-force · manhandling
Tending to suppress
- totalitarianDictatorial, all-controlling regime
- draconianExtremely harsh, especially laws
- brutalSavagely harsh or severe
- cruelWillfully causing suffering
inhumane · merciless · ruthless · abusive · stifling · suffocating · crushing · harsh
Unable to bend
- rigidUnable to bend
- uncompromisingRefusing to yield ground
- stubbornRefusing to change course
- adamantStubbornly refusing to yield
obstinate · immovable · steadfast · unbending · resolute · determined · unwavering · implacable
commanding
Exerting strong authority
masterful · directive · executive · governing · leader · influential · magisterial · sovereign · headship · no-nonsense
intimidating
Inspiring fear or unease
- bullyingAggressive repeated intimidation
- threateningExpressing intent to harm
- pressuringExerting influence to compel
compelling · manipulative · demanding · insistent · iron-fisted · arm-twisting · railroading · browbeating · steamrolling · bludgeoning
overbearing
Arrogantly dominating in manner
- bossyToo fond of directing others
- controllingExerting authority over others
- dictatorialImposing absolute control
autocratic · imperious · despotic · tyrannical · dominating · overpowering · subjugating · monopolizing · suppressing · lording
powerful
Having great strength
potent · robust · muscular · gripping · clenching · tight-fisted · physical · brute-force · manhandling · rough
repressive
Tending to suppress
- totalitarianDictatorial, all-controlling regime
- draconianExtremely harsh, especially laws
- brutalSavagely harsh or severe
cruel · inhumane · merciless · ruthless · abusive · stifling · suffocating · crushing · harsh · severe
inflexible
Unable to bend
- rigidUnable to bend
- uncompromisingRefusing to yield ground
- stubbornRefusing to change course
adamant · obstinate · immovable · steadfast · unbending · resolute · determined · unwavering · implacable · iron-willed
strong-handedpermissive
Tolerant, lacking strictness
indulgent · tolerant · forgiving · easygoing · soft-touch
strong-handeddemocratic
Government by the people
collaborative · consultative · participatory · egalitarian · empowering
strong, hand, handed, strength, strengthen, strengthening, strengthened, stronger, strongest