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.

An exhibition at the American Folk Art Museum distracts from its charming objects with a a heavy-handed curatorial message.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 4, 2026

But the heavy-handed use of “our,” “we” and “all” sends the message that, if you don’t agree with Rollins, you don’t fully count as a person, much less as a valued employee at USDA.

From Salon • May 25, 2026

It notably restricts ICE at 26 Federal Plaza, where masked agents have routinely detained people attending immigration hearings, sometimes using heavy-handed tactics.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

You also need to listen to your colleagues, including backbenchers, and the heavy-handed approach to dissenting voices diminishes our politics.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

Sometimes, like today, she gets a little heavy-handed with it.

From "The Skin I'm In" by Sharon G. Flake