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Hardline: meaning, definitions and examples

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hardline

 

[ ˈhɑːrd.laɪn ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

political stance

A hardline refers to a strict and uncompromising stance, especially in politics or policy-making. Those who take a hardline approach typically reject negotiation or compromise, advocating for extreme measures to achieve their goals.

Synonyms

extremism, fanaticism, rigidity.

Examples of usage

  • The government took a hardline on immigration policies.
  • Activists are urging a hardline against climate change denial.
  • The party's hardline stance on taxes has polarized the electorate.
Context #2 | Adjective

political approach

Hardline is used to describe policies or approaches characterized by strictness and inflexibility. In this context, it often implies a lack of willingness to engage in dialogue or compromise.

Synonyms

draconian, inflexible, unyielding.

Examples of usage

  • The leader's hardline policies have faced significant opposition.
  • Many consider her hardline approach to be detrimental to peace talks.
  • His hardline tactics during negotiations were met with criticism.

Translations

Translations of the word "hardline" in other languages:

🇵🇹 linha dura

🇮🇳 कट्टरपंथी

🇩🇪 Hardliner

🇮🇩 garis keras

🇺🇦 жорстка лінія

🇵🇱 twarda linia

🇯🇵 ハードライン

🇫🇷 ligne dure

🇪🇸 línea dura

🇹🇷 sert hat

🇰🇷 하드라인

🇸🇦 خط صلب

🇨🇿 tvrdá linie

🇸🇰 tvrdá línia

🇨🇳 强硬路线

🇸🇮 trda linija

🇮🇸 harðlínuskipulag

🇰🇿 қатты желі

🇬🇪 კაცური ხაზი

🇦🇿 qəti xətt

🇲🇽 línea dura

Etymology

The term 'hardline' originated in the late 20th century, specifically gaining traction during the Cold War era. It was commonly used to describe policies and individuals who rejected any form of compromise, particularly in relation to political ideologies. The word combines 'hard', indicating strictness or toughness, and 'line', denoting a boundary or point of view. Over time, it has been adopted in various contexts beyond politics, including social issues and business strategies, reflecting a broader tendency towards uncompromising positions in multiple spheres of life.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,768 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.