A child misunderstands a question. Publicly humiliating them may make future learning harder; giving a clear explanation and a chance to improve is often more useful. الرِّفْقَ refers to choosing an appropriate humane manner, not merely speaking softly at all times.
Example 1: Explain both why a student's answer was mistaken and how to correct it.
Example 2: Defend another person's rights through a firm but respectful objection.
Gentleness can coexist with decisive action when safety or justice requires it. The aim is not to overlook wrongdoing, but to pursue good through a sound and proportionate method.