play hardball

Idioms  

1. Act aggressively and ruthlessly, as in It's only a month before the election, and I'm sure they'll start to play hardball. This term originated in baseball, where it alludes to using the standard ball as opposed to the slightly larger and minimally softer ball of softball. It was transferred to describe aggressive behavior only in the 1970s.

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Example Sentences

Thompson believes he was too angry when dealing with his adversaries, which encouraged them to play hardball with him in return.

From The Verge

It might have gotten a little scary for both sides when word began to trickle out this week that the Seahawks were prepared to play hardball with the franchise tags that could have kept Adams in Seattle even without a contract agreement.

From Seattle Times

And while general perception may exist that Adams has the leverage, NFL rules give Seattle some ability to play hardball.

From Seattle Times

In any case, it’s important to note that women do also play hardball, that didn’t end with the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League of “A League Of Its Own” fame, although it’s a bit more common outside of America these days.

From The Guardian

Simon Property Group Inc fell 3.6% after the U.S. mall operator said it does not expect a return to 2019 occupancy levels until next year or 2023, as it looks to play hardball in rent negotiations with tenants.

From Reuters