an iron fist in a velvet glove
idiomPart ofglove
an iron fist in a velvet glove — idiom
1. a person or policy that seems gentle and pleasant on the surface but is harsh an
1.idiom
Definition
a person or policy that seems gentle and pleasant on the surface but is harsh and determined underneath
Example
The general spoke calmly, but everyone knew he ruled with an iron fist in a velvet glove.
Her friendly smile hid a tough negotiator — an iron fist in a velvet glove.