hard-line

1 of 2

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈlīn How to pronounce hard-line (audio)
Synonyms of hard-linenext
: advocating or involving a rigidly uncompromising course of action
a hard-line policy
hard-liner
ˈhärd-ˈlī-nər How to pronounce hard-line (audio)
noun

hard-liner

2 of 2

noun

hard-lin·​er
: one who advocates or pursues a hard-line policy

Synonyms of hard-line

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Adjective

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Examples of hard-line in a Sentence

Adjective a hard-line approach to the sentencing of repeat offenders
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
His hard-line security policies have been a pillar of his campaign, and polls show these proposals are popular. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 Even a modest drop in support could shape Tuesday’s tight election, helping opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot or strengthening hard-line parties that may keep Netanyahu in power. — Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026 The Kremlin has also shown little sign of shifting from its hard-line demands, which include seizing Ukraine’s entire eastern Donbas region. — Yuliya Talmazan, NBC news, 21 Oct. 2026 In some districts, the expansion of policing has been accompanied by a more hard-line approach to violent behavior. — Kristian Hernández, San Antonio Express-News, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hard-line

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hard-line was in 1903

Rhymes for hard-line

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Browse Nearby Words

hard lead
hard-line
hard-liner
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Cite this Entry

“Hard-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hard-line. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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