pleɪ ˈhɑːrdbɔːl
Sports
informal
intermediate
- Literally:
- to play baseball (hardball) as opposed to softball
What does "play hardball" mean?
to act aggressively or ruthlessly in negotiations
Examples
- The union decided to play hardball and rejected the initial offer.
- If they won't negotiate fairly, we'll have to play hardball.
- The lawyer is known for playing hardball in court.
Origin
From the distinction between baseball (hardball) and softball. Figurative use emerged in mid-20th century.
How to use it
Used in business, legal, and political contexts.
Similar expressions
get tough
play rough
take the gloves off
Opposites
play nice
go easy
play fair
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "play hardball" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.