Meaning of "Tell Her No" by Juice Newton

The lyrics of "Tell Her No" revolve around possessiveness and jealousy in love. The protagonist is pleading with another person not to give in to the advances of someone who is trying to tempt them away, asserting that the love of the person in question already belongs to them. There is a sense of vulnerability and fear of losing the one they love, as they acknowledge that the other person may be the type to throw love away easily. The repetition of "Tell her no" emphasizes the desire to protect their relationship and stake a claim on the love that is rightfully theirs. The protagonist's plea not to hurt them and not to take away their lover reflects the raw emotion and insecurity that can come with love, especially when faced with potential competition.