iron fist; strong-arm rule
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
iron fist; strong hand; tough methods or measures
Often used attributively to describe people or policies, as in 铁腕人物 (iron-handed figure) or 铁腕政策 (hardline policy).
He is a well-known iron-handed figure who carried out drastic reforms after taking office.
In the face of crisis, the government must adopt iron-fisted measures.
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This coach runs the team with an iron fist, and the squad is highly disciplined.
noun
iron-fisted rule; strong-arm governance
Refers to authoritarian or forceful governance, often implying tight control and strict enforcement.
That country has long practiced iron-fisted rule, suppressing all voices of opposition.
Under iron-fisted rule, public security improved, but freedom of speech was restricted.
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History has proven that purely iron-fisted rule is difficult to maintain in the long run.