hardball
Translation
hardball, tough tactics
Examples
Little league players use a hardball, not a softball.
Little league players use a hardball, not a softball.
The company is known to play hardball in negotiations.
The company is known to play hardball in negotiations.
Grammar Patterns
((uncountable noun)) a type of baseball played with a hard ball He prefers playing hardball over softball.
((uncountable noun)) (figurative) a tough, uncompromising approach It's time to play hardball with our competitors.
Similar Words
Synonyms (figurative): toughness, aggressiveness; Antonyms: soft approach, compromise
Etymology
From 'hard' + 'ball'. Literally, the solid, hard ball used in baseball, as opposed to a 'softball'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a baseball thrown very fast, which is difficult and dangerous to catch. This relates to the figurative meaning of being tough and uncompromising.