# hardline

/ˈhɑɹdˌɫaɪn/ (US) · /hˈɑːdlaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hardline
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing a person or group that has very strong, strict, and often difficult-to-change opinions. In business, it usually refers to a person who is very strict about following rules or making tough decisions.

For teachers: characterised by a firm, uncompromising, or inflexible stance. In a business or political context, it describes a person who adheres strictly to traditional or conservative principles.

## Examples

- The hardline manager refused to give the employees any extra time off.
- The company's hardline approach to security meant that no employee could leave the building without a valid ID.
- The administration's hardline stance on trade tariffs led to a significant increase in domestic production costs, despite the initial promise of long-term economic stability.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.