rule with a rod of iron

Meaning

1. rule (sb / sth) with a rod of iron

   to control a person or a group of people very severely

From the same entry

• bend the rules
• play by rules
• play by the rules
• the rules of the game
• the rule of law
• a rule of thumb
• work to rule
• the exception that proves the rule
• rule the roost
• rule out of court
• divide and rule
• let your heart rule your head