hard line

¹ American  

noun

1. an uncompromising or unyielding stand, especially in politics.

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hard-line ² American  

[hahrd-lahyn] / ˈhɑrdˌlaɪn /

Or hardline

adjective

1. adhering rigidly to a dogma, theory, or plan; uncompromising or unyielding.

   hard-line union demands.

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hard line British  

noun

1. 1. an uncompromising course or policy

   2.  hardline.  ( as modifier )

      a hardline policy

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hard line Idioms  

1. A firm, uncompromising policy or position. For example, The President was taking a hard line on the budget. [c. 1960]

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Other Word Forms

• hardliner noun

Etymology

Origin of hard line¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Origin of hard-line²

An Americanism dating back to 1960–65

Example Sentences

“There’s no hard line dates for any of our players, it really isn’t,” Roberts said.

From Los Angeles Times

"Her dad was chancellor of the exchequer - it's a hard line to walk, but she's also very relatable."

From BBC

Farage stressed Thomas and his party colleagues in Wales would set Welsh policy, saying he was "not a hard line dictator".

From BBC

Now Musk, who has called himself a free-speech absolutist, while also vowing to take a hard line on child exploitation, faces growing calls for enforcement around the world and in the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal

But they also endorse foods like red meat and full-fat dairy, while taking a hard line against highly processed foods, added sugar and refined carbohydrates like white bread.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• hard-core
• militant
• staunch
• uncompromising
• unyielding