play hardball
Meaning
To act aggressively and uncompromisingly in order to win a dispute or negotiation.
Origin
From baseball: “hardball” is the regular, hard ball used in baseball (contrasted with “softball”). By metaphor, “hardball” came to mean tough, no-nonsense tactics in politics, business, or conflicts.
Notes
Common in business/politics for tough, uncompromising tactics. Often implies aggression and can sound critical; contrasts with a cooperative or conciliatory approach.
Examples
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In the salary negotiation, she decided to play hardball and wouldn’t accept anything below her target number.
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The company played hardball with its suppliers, demanding lower prices or threatening to switch vendors.
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After months of delays, the landlord started playing hardball and issued a formal notice to vacate.
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If they keep playing hardball in the talks, we may have to walk away from the deal.
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The coach played hardball with the star player, making it clear that no one is above team rules.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “play hardball (with/against someone)” or “play hardball on/over (an issue).” Fixed phrase; verb can inflect: plays/played/playing hardball.
Synonyms
- play tough
- take a hard line
- get tough
- drive a hard bargain
Antonyms
- play softball
- take a soft approach
- meet halfway
- compromise