In terms of law enforcement
2007-02-05 13:08:55 · 5 answers · asked by Red 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law Enforcement & Police
This was said by a famous leader (Churchill? Count of Monte Crisco? Machievalli?) and refers to a two-pronged approach to leadership.
Picture it: you see a hand in a velvet glove; it's soft, luxurious, and gentle. Underneath it though, is a fist that's rock hard, unyielding, dangerous. It means that the first approach is diplomatic and understated, but is backed by determination, strength, and power.
A policeman approaches you (notice the politeness), "Mr. Smith would you step out of the car, please? May I please see your driver's license?" If however, due to drunkenness or obstinacy, you give him problems, the velvet glove comes off quickly and you are faced with body checks, handcuffs, and profanity (the iron fist).
2007-02-05 14:45:32 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Iron Fist - to force something or someone to do as you will.
Velvet Glove - to gently persuade someone to do as you will.
Same theory works for government or training your dog.
Some people will beat their dog into submission others will
train them by gentle means.
2007-02-05 14:18:08 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
velvet glove is to persuade someone
iron fist is to force someone
2007-02-05 14:45:46 · answer #3 · answered by glamour04111 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Similar to "Walk softly and carry a big stick"...or "a Wolf disguised in sheep's clothing"....in other words someone who presents themselves as a mild mannered person to the public but behind closed doors is really a brute.
2007-02-06 00:00:47 · answer #4 · answered by Tom M 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
never heard this term or terms. Not a Midwest thing.
2007-02-05 13:20:01 · answer #5 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋