cold hard negotiation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cold hard negotiation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a negotiation that is tough, uncompromising, and devoid of emotional considerations. Example: "The deal was reached after a series of cold hard negotiations that tested both parties' resolve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

What lies ahead is a cold, hard negotiation on the bottom line of contributions and receipts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

There's a war going on right now, where through endless negotiation, big promises and cold, hard cash, both Sony and Microsoft are extracting platform-exclusive content from the larger devs.

Forbes

Cold, hard bitch?

Independent

Apparently cold, hard cash.

The Washington Post

In cold, hard cash.

The New York Times

Just the cold, hard facts.

The New York Times

What about cold, hard cash?

The New Yorker

These are cold, hard times.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is just cold, hard math.

The New York Times

It is about cold, hard economics.

The New York Times

Cold, hard facts don't interest her.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cold hard negotiation", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation where emotional considerations are secondary to achieving a specific outcome. This phrase is most effective when highlighting a pragmatic and potentially difficult process.

Common error

Avoid using "cold hard negotiation" when describing situations that require empathy or compromise, as it implies a lack of emotional sensitivity and may not be appropriate for collaborative or relationship-focused contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cold hard negotiation" functions as a noun phrase, where "cold" and "hard" act as adjectives modifying the noun "negotiation". It describes the type or quality of the negotiation, as evidenced by the example provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cold hard negotiation" is a grammatically sound phrase that describes a particularly tough and unemotional negotiation process. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, though its frequency is relatively rare. It's primarily used in News & Media to emphasize a pragmatic, outcome-focused approach, often in challenging situations. Alternatives like "tough negotiation" or "uncompromising negotiation" may be more common depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tough negotiation

This alternative emphasizes the difficulty and demanding nature of the negotiation.

difficult bargaining

Highlights the challenges involved in reaching an agreement.

intense deliberation

Focuses on the high level of concentration and effort required.

uncompromising negotiation

Emphasizes the rigid and firm stances taken by the parties involved.

rigorous bargaining

Highlights the thorough and strict approach to the negotiation process.

stern negotiation

Focuses on the serious and severe tone of the negotiation.

arduous negotiation

Stresses the effort and exertion required to complete the negotiation.

demanding deliberation

Emphasizes the high expectations and pressures involved in the discussion.

challenging bargaining

Highlights the obstacles and difficulties encountered during the negotiation.

brutal negotiation

This alternative emphasizes the harshness and ruthlessness of the negotiation.

FAQs

What does "cold hard negotiation" mean?

The phrase "cold hard negotiation" refers to a negotiation that is tough, uncompromising, and primarily focused on achieving a specific outcome, often with little regard for emotional considerations or relationships.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cold hard negotiation"?

It's appropriate to use "cold hard negotiation" when describing situations where parties are focused on achieving a specific outcome, often involving difficult or contentious discussions, and where emotional considerations are secondary. Consider alternatives like "tough negotiation" or "intense deliberation" if the situation requires a more nuanced approach.

What are some alternatives to "cold hard negotiation"?

Alternatives to "cold hard negotiation" include "tough negotiation", "difficult bargaining", "uncompromising negotiation", or "intense deliberation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cold hard negotiation" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "cold hard negotiation" is not as common as other similar phrases like "tough negotiation". Its usage is relatively rare compared to its alternatives.