heavy-handed
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Heavy-handed policing or blanket approaches risk creating a chilling effect, deterring citizens from exercising their fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly through fear of possible consequences."
From BBC • Aug. 15, 2025
Heavy-handed and more than a little pretentious, “Flag Day” seems to view John’s volatile fortunes as a metaphor for those of his country.
From New York Times • Aug. 19, 2021
Heavy-handed demands for this genial but proud, and proudly independent, jurist to retire could even backfire, as did a back-channel effort to nudge him out during the Obama years, according to the Times.
From Washington Post • Apr. 13, 2021
Heavy-handed industrial policies have often failed in Latin America.
From Economist • Jun. 25, 2015
Heavy-handed, red-faced, gaunt and grim, Cassidy loomed up beside her.
From McClure's Magazine, Vol. 31, No. 1, May 1908 by Various
