2006-12-25 22:54:26 · 9 answers · asked by k f 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
is it a positive or negative phrase?
2006-12-25 23:20:29 · update #1
The "velvet glove" tells you the person is a woman and the "iron fist" means she is one tough woman. She is probably a stylish and strong woman - but she can show no mercy if you are on the wrong side of her.
Good Luck!!!
2006-12-25 23:13:22 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is generally used to talk about a person. Someone who has an iron fist in a velvet glove is normally quite harsh and horrible, but covers it by being nice at a first meeting.
2006-12-25 23:04:33 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Iron Fist Idiom
2016-12-15 14:33:27 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It originally described a form of diplomacy, the velvet glove signified a polite request and the iron fist the threat implied if the request was ignored. Like sugar coating a bitter medicine, its easier to accept.
2006-12-25 23:31:28 · answer #4 · answered by BANANA 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Back stabber..(iron fist)...Nice to your face..(velvet glove)...
Personally I find out real quick if a person is of that nature and then have nothing to do with them..(they dont and never have existed in my life)...
2006-12-25 23:19:36 · answer #5 · answered by ozzy chik... 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Traditionally it has been used to describe autocratic rule beneath a softer exterior, as when Carlyle used the expression to describe Napoleon. In other words the meaning can be described as brutal acts disguised by gentle or fine appearance.
2006-12-25 23:42:46 · answer #6 · answered by meggush 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would think it's similar to delivering somebody a '**** sandwich', i.e. deliver a criticism packed in praise before and after giving the negative comment.
2006-12-25 22:59:27 · answer #7 · answered by Els 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Strength hidden in a soft appearance.
2016-05-23 07:30:02 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Something that you say when you are describing someone who seems to be gentle but is in fact severe and firm.
2006-12-25 23:04:48 · answer #9 · answered by Blue 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋