get tough with

get tough with (someone)

To become strict or stern with and ready to discipline someone. You need to get tough with the kids if they won'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

Become harsh, severe, unyielding with someone. For example, We have to get tough with these people or we'll get nowhere. [c. 1930]
See also: get, tough
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
See also:
  • get tough with (someone)
  • get tough
  • get tough on (someone or something)
  • be tough on (someone or something)
  • tough on
  • tough on (someone or something)
  • be/get tough
  • be tough
  • tougher
  • tougher on (someone or something)