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Definitions

hard-line

ADJECTIVE
firm
Synonyms
STRONGEST
hard-core militant staunch uncompromising unyielding
WEAK
adamant hard-boiled hard-nosed inflexible stand-pat steadfast stern stiff strict unbending ungiving
Antonyms
STRONGEST
flexible irresolute tolerant

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Its delegation in the talks includes officials known for taking an especially hard line with the West.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

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

From BBC • Feb. 5, 2026

Publicly, officials have struck a conciliatory tone when it comes to protesters' economic demands, while vowing to take a hard line against any chaos and destabilisation.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

Miles’s eyebrows set in a hard line above his eyes.

From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia