hardline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hardline" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a strict or uncompromising stance, often in political or ideological contexts. Example: "The politician took a hardline approach to immigration reform, refusing to consider any compromises."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That means we are encouraging the hardliners – the most hardline of the hardline in Israel – to think in terms of a greater Israel, an annexation of what has been seen by the world up until now as territory occupied as a consequence of the 1967 war," Carr said.

The Guardian

The White House is attempting to cultivate new ties with Egypt's new Islamist rulers following the removal of the Hosni Mubarak, the hardline president who was formerly backed by Washington, last year.

The Guardian

As talks resumed at Stormont to revive the assembly, under the chairmanship of the Northern Ireland secretary, Paul Murphy, and junior Irish foreign minister Tom Kitt, Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness urged the hardline DUP to strike a deal as quickly as possible.

The Guardian

This is the first time the government has admitted the boat's existence after both Morrison and the Australian prime minister repeatedly refused to comment on its whereabouts, citing national security interests under Australia's hardline military-led border regime.

The Guardian

He may be more vulnerable if the DUP has a bad general election and loses a seat to the hardline Traditional Unionist Voice.

The Guardian

If Melwyn Lucas of the hardline Traditional Unionist Voice takes several thousand votes in South Antrim (from ultra-loyalist disgruntled ex-DUP voters) then McCrea may lose the seat to Empey.

The Guardian

In the last two days of the campaign Netanyahu has tacked sharply right in a effort to secure re-election, addressing a rally in Tel Aviv organised by hardline pro-settlement activists and visiting the settlement at Har Homa in occupied east Jerusalem.

The Guardian

It is, says Alawi, just the latest move in a series of state-endorsed acts of cultural vandalism, urged on by the hardline wahhabist sect, which perceives historic sites and the veneration of the prophet as encouraging sinful idolatry.

The Guardian - Arts

They had lost patience with Israel's hardline leadership.

The Guardian - Opinion

But going on pro-choice offense also forces those who identify as pro-choice to stop equivocating about the morality of abortion and take a more hardline approach to our rights.

The Guardian - Opinion

Since taking power in 1994, the country's hardline president, Alexander Lukashenko, had maintained an iron grip on power.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a political stance, consider whether "hardline" accurately reflects the inflexibility and severity of the position. Alternatives like "uncompromising" or "strict" might be more appropriate depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "hardline" in casual conversation. This term is typically reserved for formal or professional discussions, particularly in political or ideological contexts. Using it in everyday scenarios can sound overly dramatic or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "hardline" primarily functions as a pre-modifier, describing a noun that represents a position, policy, or individual characterized by strictness and inflexibility. Ludwig indicates this is correct and usable in written English, with examples showing its common use in describing political approaches.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "hardline" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term, predominantly within news and media contexts, to depict an uncompromising or stringent stance. As Ludwig confirms, its primary function is to modify nouns, conveying rigidity and a lack of flexibility. While generally neutral in register, it's best reserved for formal or professional discussions. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "uncompromising", "strict", or "rigid", depending on the specific nuance you wish to impart.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncompromising

Emphasizes a refusal to yield or make concessions.

inflexible

Highlights the rigidity and lack of adaptability.

strict

Suggests adherence to rules and regulations.

rigid

Implies an unyielding and unbending stance.

firm

Indicates a strong and resolute position.

draconian

Suggests extreme severity and harshness.

tough

Implies resilience and determination when dealing with issues.

zealous

Highlights passionate and enthusiastic commitment.

militant

Suggests an aggressive and combative approach.

die-hard

Emphasizes unwavering loyalty and resistance to change.

FAQs

How can I use "hardline" in a sentence?

You can use "hardline" to describe a strict or uncompromising stance. For example, "The president took a "hardline stance" on immigration reform."

What's the difference between "hardline" and "uncompromising"?

"Hardline" often implies a more rigid and less flexible position than "uncompromising". While both suggest a refusal to yield, "hardline" can also suggest a more aggressive or inflexible approach.

What are some synonyms for "hardline"?

Synonyms for "hardline" include "strict", "rigid", "inflexible", and "tough". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "hardline" in all types of writing?

While "hardline" is grammatically correct, it's best suited for formal or professional writing, particularly when discussing political or ideological issues. It may not be appropriate in casual or informal contexts.