harsh line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harsh line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strict or severe stance on an issue or a clear boundary that is not to be crossed. Example: "The company's policy takes a harsh line on employee misconduct, ensuring that any violations are met with immediate consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Some party insiders are clearly miffed by Mr. Shays's harsh line.

The New York Times

The U.K.'s competition authorities were wrong to take such a harsh line on Sainsbury-Asda.

The Washington Post

So far, the Bush administration has taken a harsh line in the talks, and especially with Brazil.

The Economist

After the first preview performances on Broadway last month some theatergoers moaned when the actors paused after a particularly harsh line by Karl.

The New York Times

If reelected, however, he will face a more confrontational Trump administration, which has taken a harsh line against Iran and placed the nuclear deal under review.

The Washington Post

Intended to convey softness on to the harsh line of a suit, statement jewellery is one of the oldest sartorial cliches in the power dressing book.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

In contrast, the modern model is all harsh lines and angles, her mood as sullen as her frown.

The New York Times

Working from either the drawing or the engraving, Lavater made his own drawing with the harsh lines altered and jowl softened.

Princeton University

BOTTOM LINE Once you get past the harsh lines and antiseptic chill, you'll find this American-inspired hotel in the heart of old Barcelona to be the quirky-sexy hot spot that it's trying to be.

The New York Times - Travel

The harsh lines in Stack's portrait of Tom soften a bit when the family is in Delhi: He magnanimously insists on clean water delivery to Pooja in the servants' quarters; he graciously offers Pooja an air conditioner.

The New York Times - Books

Cilla Black and Michael Parkinson were up there giving readings, and the sight of an entire candlelit congregation was like something from the 18th-century, the golden glow mellowing the skin and softening the harsh lines of modern dress.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "harsh line" with specific examples to illustrate the consequences or implications of the strict approach.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh line" in casual conversation or informal writing where a less formal term would be more appropriate. Overuse can make your language sound overly formal or aggressive in everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh line" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb (e.g., "take a harsh line"). Ludwig examples confirm its role in describing a strict or uncompromising approach to a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "harsh line" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase to describe a severe or uncompromising stance. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it conveys a sense of strictness. Alternatives include "strict stance" or "severe measure". While appropriate for formal discussions, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. The phrase benefits from specific examples to underscore its implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict stance

Emphasizes a firm and uncompromising position, similar to a "harsh line".

severe measure

Highlights the severity of an action or policy, akin to the implications of a "harsh line".

tough policy

Focuses on the difficulty and strictness of a policy, mirroring the effect of a "harsh line".

firm boundary

Highlights an unyielding limit or restriction, comparable to setting a "harsh line".

rigid approach

Implies an inflexible and unyielding method, reflecting the inflexibility associated with a "harsh line".

stringent rule

Stresses the strictness and precision of a rule, similar to the precision of a "harsh line".

draconian measure

Emphasizes the extreme severity and strictness, similar to a "harsh line" in its intensity.

uncompromising attitude

Highlights a lack of willingness to negotiate or concede, echoing the firm nature of a "harsh line".

inflexible position

Implies an unwillingness to change or adapt, similar to the steadfastness of a "harsh line".

austere policy

Highlights the strictness and lack of leniency in a policy, reflecting the severity of a "harsh line".

FAQs

How can I use "harsh line" in a sentence?

You can use "harsh line" to describe a strict policy or uncompromising stance. For example, "The company took a "harsh line" against employee theft."

What are some alternatives to "harsh line"?

Alternatives include "strict stance", "severe measure", or "tough policy", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "harsh line"?

While grammatically correct, "harsh line" is most suitable for formal or serious contexts where a strong and uncompromising approach is being discussed. Consider your audience and the tone you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "harsh line" and "hard line"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. Both "harsh line" and "hard line" denote a strict and uncompromising approach. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic variation.