be/get tough

be tough

To be stern or commanding with someone. Tell Aunt Margie that she needs to be tough with the kids, or else they'll never listen to her.
See also: tough

get tough

To become strict or stern and ready to discipline. Thanks for taking care of the kids for me. Remember to get tough if they don't listen to you. I had to start getting tough with the members of my team to get the project back on schedule.
See also: get, tough
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

get tough (with someone)

to become firm with someone; to use physical force against someone. The teacher had to get tough with the class because the students were acting badly. I've tried nicely to get you to behave, but it looks like I'll have to get tough and really punish you.
See also: get, tough
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

be/get ˈtough (on/with somebody)

be strict with somebody whose behaviour you do not like; be ready to punish somebody: It’s time to get tough with football hooligans. be tough on crime
See also: get, tough
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • be tough
  • a tough nut to crack
  • tough nut to crack
  • tough nut to crack, a
  • get tough with
  • get tough with (someone)
  • tough times
  • hang tough
  • get tough
  • (as) tough as nails