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

It’s a hard line to take given that you have a modest net worth and two kids.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Kalshi has taken a hard line against insider trading, while Barron’s has previously reported that Polymarket social media accounts have promoted instances of potential insider trading occurring on Polymarket.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

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 • Jan. 7, 2026

And in the end, that hard line paid off.

From BBC • Nov. 10, 2025

She walked straight for him, her mouth set in a hard line, and stopped just to the side of the door, as if she expected Toby to pull away.

From "We'll Fly Away" by Bryan Bliss

Related Words

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