hard stance

USAGE SUMMARY

"hard stance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiomatic phrase that is used to describe a strong, unwavering attitude or opinion on a subject, usually one that is uncompromising or assertive. Example: The government took a hard stance on immigration policies, refusing to compromise on any changes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Mr. Owens, like his father, has taken a hard stance against the project.

The New York Times

It is a hard stance to maintain, and occasionally he wobbled.

The Guardian

The Obama administration took a hard stance with G.M. and Chrysler.

The New York Times

In Ohio, they are having rallies for Trump right now because Trump has taken a hard stance on Mexico.

The Washington Post

For a long time, I took a hard stance against decorations in baking, but I'm starting to reconsider.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In many cases, those concerns have stopped short of taking a hard stance on the nature of the government's activities.

The New Yorker

His taunting forced the normally measured prime minister, Yoshihiko Noda, to take a hard stance by announcing the national government's purchase of the isles.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mr. Church doesn't quite benefit from the hard stance-taking of modern country, but he's learned to adapt.

The New York Times - Arts

Such hard stances are a significant departure from the past, when industry and union leaders tried to avoid head-to-head confrontation whenever possible.

The New York Times

He says that members of both parties shy away from the hard stances, like raising the retirement age for Social Security or ruling out new tax cuts.

The New York Times - Magazine

But Republicans are taking hard stances on a number of issues.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hard stance" when you want to emphasize a firm, uncompromising position. For example, "The company took a "hard stance" against any form of discrimination."

Common error

Avoid using "hard stance" when a more neutral or flexible position is intended. A "hard stance" implies inflexibility, which might not always be desirable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hard stance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb (e.g., "take a hard stance"). Ludwig examples show its usage in describing a firm position on a specific issue. Ludwig AI confirms it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hard stance" is a correct and commonly used phrase to describe a firm, uncompromising position. According to Ludwig AI, it's an idiomatic expression that emphasizes an unwavering attitude. Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase functions as a noun phrase and serves to convey a strong, resolute opinion. While similar phrases like "firm position" and "unyielding stance" exist, "hard stance" effectively communicates inflexibility and determination in various contexts, as demonstrated by Ludwig's extensive collection of examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unyielding stance

Highlights the inflexibility and determination behind the position.

resolute position

Emphasizes determination and unwavering commitment.

firm position

Focuses on the resolute nature of the declared attitude.

tough position

Emphasizes the difficulty or challenge associated with the position.

determined position

Emphasizes the purposefulness and resolve behind the chosen perspective.

adamant position

Focuses on the unwavering and resolute nature of the opinion.

strict position

Emphasizes the adherence to rules or principles.

inflexible attitude

Highlights the lack of willingness to change or compromise.

rigid stand

Highlights the inflexibility and strictness in adhering to a belief or principle.

firm line

Suggests a boundary or limit that is not to be crossed.

FAQs

How to use "hard stance" in a sentence?

You can use "hard stance" to describe a firm, uncompromising position on an issue. For example, "The government took a "hard stance" on immigration."

What can I say instead of "hard stance"?

You can use alternatives like "firm position", "unyielding stance", or "resolute position" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "hard stance" or "difficult stance"?

"Hard stance" is the correct and commonly used phrase to indicate a firm, uncompromising position. "Difficult stance" might refer to a challenging position to maintain but doesn't carry the same meaning.

What's the difference between "hard stance" and "tough stance"?

"Hard stance" and "tough stance" are very similar, both implying a firm and uncompromising position. "Hard stance" might emphasize inflexibility more strongly.