as in strict
not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards
a hard-line approach to the sentencing of repeat offenders
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Recent Examples of hard-line
His hard-line immigration policies have proven to be particularly unpopular, with six in 10 residents disapproving of his actions, according to the survey, a stark contrast to the county’s historical stance on the issue.
—
Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 6 May 2026
Her campaign drew on the enduring appeal of Fujimorismo—a political current associated with her father’s rule that combines strong executive leadership, political conservatism, and a hard-line approach to security.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 May 2026
Her selection enraged Iran’s hard-line Shiite theocracy, which increased her prison time and later sent guards to rough her up along with other prisoners who were protesting inside Evin Prison.
—ABC News, 1 May 2026
Since 2023, he's assumed a hard-line stance in his support for Israel, particularly in relation to Israel's military action in Gaza, as compared to other Democrats, according to The Hill.
—Finch Walker, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hard-line
Hannah Fry, Los Angeles Times, 6 May 2026
Her campaign drew on the enduring appeal of Fujimorismo—a political current associated with her father’s rule that combines strong executive leadership, political conservatism, and a hard-line approach to security.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 May 2026
Her selection enraged Iran’s hard-line Shiite theocracy, which increased her prison time and later sent guards to rough her up along with other prisoners who were protesting inside Evin Prison.
—ABC News, 1 May 2026
Since 2023, he's assumed a hard-line stance in his support for Israel, particularly in relation to Israel's military action in Gaza, as compared to other Democrats, according to The Hill.
—Finch Walker, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for hard-line
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hard-line
Adjective
-
If strict fidelity gets in the way, it can be treated as immaterial.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
19 May 2026
-
Employees who once rejected office culture are now returning to in-person roles, accepting stricter employer demands, delaying entrepreneurial goals, or remaining in emotionally exhausting workplaces because financial risks feel too high.—
Maia Niguel Hoskin,
Forbes.com,
18 May 2026
Adjective
-
Students reportedly balanced rigorous courses and activities Many of the students took difficult classes such as AP Physics, AP Economics and multivariable calculus while also participating in clubs, sports and community organizations.—
Anthony Thompson,
USA Today,
15 May 2026
-
The report goes on to say separate academies for immigrant and refugee students can deny them access to rigorous coursework and diverse elective options, and can hinder their academic process and social integration.—
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
15 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Hard-line.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hard-line. Accessed 23 May. 2026.
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