The spelling of the phrase "harsh on" may seem confusing due to the silent "h" at the beginning of the word. The correct pronunciation is /hɑːʃ ɒn/ with the stress on the first syllable. The "h" is silent making the "a" sound as in "car" the first sound you hear. "Harsh on" means severely critical or strict towards someone or something. It is important to understand the phonetic transcription to pronounce the word correctly in everyday speech.
The phrase "harsh on" is an informal idiomatic expression that typically refers to someone being overly critical, strict, or unsympathetic towards another person. It can describe a situation where someone displays a severe and uncompromising attitude or treatment towards someone or something, often lacking empathy or understanding.
When someone is "harsh on" another individual, it signifies that they are being exceptionally hard on them. This could involve frequently pointing out their faults, shortcomings, or mistakes, and being stringent in their judgement or punishment. The person who is harsh on someone may often adopt a rigid and unforgiving approach, disregarding any extenuating circumstances or allowing room for compassion.
The phrase "harsh on" can be used in various contexts, such as in personal relationships, work environments, or educational settings, where individuals may subject others to intense scrutiny or criticism. It implies a lack of leniency or consideration for the feelings, emotions, or circumstances of the person being harshly treated. Being harsh on someone may adversely affect their self-esteem, confidence, or overall well-being.
Overall, being "harsh on" means exhibiting an unusually or unnecessarily severe, critical, or unsympathetic attitude towards someone, often resulting in a negative impact on the individual's mental or emotional state.