Be hard on somebody/something
verb phrase
To be overly tough or overly critical about someone or something.
Don't be too hard on yourself; everyone makes mistakes.
Often appears as...
- be hard on oneself
- be hard on the equipment
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb phrase
To make it difficult for someone or something to cope with.
The harsh weather conditions could be hard on the crops.
Often appears as...
- be hard on the environment
- be hard on the budget
verb phrase
To be overly tough or overly critical about someone or something.
Don't be too hard on yourself; everyone makes mistakes.
Often appears as...
- be hard on oneself
- be hard on the equipment
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb phrase
To make it difficult for someone or something to cope with.
The harsh weather conditions could be hard on the crops.
Often appears as...
- be hard on the environment
- be hard on the budget
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Self-Criticism
Used when acknowledging personal mistakes or flaws, but also implies a warning against being too critical of oneself.
I appreciate your feedback, but I need to be less hard on myself.
Pro Tip 2/3Evaluative Context
Frequently used in scenarios of assessment, such as job performance reviews, to suggest someone is being judged strictly.
The coach was really hard on us after the game.
Pro Tip 3/3Motivational Use
Sometimes said by mentors or leaders to challenge individuals to improve, often in professional or personal development settings.
You'll thank me for being hard on you once you see the results.
Pro Tip 1/3Self-Criticism
Used when acknowledging personal mistakes or flaws, but also implies a warning against being too critical of oneself.
I appreciate your feedback, but I need to be less hard on myself.
Pro Tip 2/3Evaluative Context
Frequently used in scenarios of assessment, such as job performance reviews, to suggest someone is being judged strictly.
The coach was really hard on us after the game.
Pro Tip 3/3Motivational Use
Sometimes said by mentors or leaders to challenge individuals to improve, often in professional or personal development settings.
You'll thank me for being hard on you once you see the results.
Pro Tip 1/3Self-Criticism
Used when acknowledging personal mistakes or flaws, but also implies a warning against being too critical of oneself.
I appreciate your feedback, but I need to be less hard on myself.
Pro Tip 2/3Evaluative Context
Frequently used in scenarios of assessment, such as job performance reviews, to suggest someone is being judged strictly.
The coach was really hard on us after the game.
Pro Tip 3/3Motivational Use
Sometimes said by mentors or leaders to challenge individuals to improve, often in professional or personal development settings.
You'll thank me for being hard on you once you see the results.
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