softlybutfirmly
adverbUK /ˌsɒftli bʌt ˈfɜːmli/
US /ˌsɔːftli bʌt ˈfɜːrmli/
In a kind way that still makes the rules clear.
She told the noisy class to quiet down softly but firmly.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Speaking in a quiet voice while still showing you mean what you say.
He said no to the extra cookie softly but firmly.
3. Correcting someone without being mean or angry.
The coach corrected the young player softly but firmly.
4. Setting a limit in a calm and steady way.
The teacher set the bedtime rule softly but firmly.