kindly-firm
adjectiveUK /ˈkaɪndli fɜːm/
US /ˈkaɪndli fɜːrm/
Being nice but still making the rules clear.
The teacher gave a kindly-firm reminder to put toys away.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Saying no in a polite way that does not change.
She gave a kindly-firm no to the extra cookie.
3. Helping someone while still holding them to a promise.
His kindly-firm coach made him finish the lap.
4. Being loving without letting someone be unkind.
The parent's kindly-firm voice stopped the arguing.
5. A calm way of keeping order that feels safe.
The librarian's kindly-firm shush kept the room quiet.