heavy-handed
|heav/y-hand/ed|
/ˌhɛviˈhændɪd/
clumsy or oppressive action
Etymology
'heavy-handed' originates from the combination of 'heavy' and 'handed', where 'heavy' meant 'weighty or burdensome' and 'handed' referred to the manner of handling or dealing with something.
'heavy-handed' evolved from the literal sense of having a heavy hand, implying clumsiness or forcefulness, to its modern figurative meaning.
Initially, it meant 'having a physically heavy hand', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'clumsy or forceful in approach'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
clumsy or insensitive in handling things or people.
His heavy-handed approach to management upset many employees.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
using excessive force or authority.
The police were criticized for their heavy-handed tactics during the protest.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/13 08:52