Synonyms of hard-line

hard-line

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈlīn 

as in strict

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards

a hard-line approach to the sentencing of repeat offenders

Synonyms & Similar Words

• strict
• rigorous
• uncompromising
• rigid
• stringent
• steadfast
• inflexible
• exacting
• adamant
• conscientious
• cast-iron
• meticulous
• stubborn
• relentless
• unbending
• scrupulous
• brassbound
• tenacious
• tough
• punctilious
• unflinching
• undeviating
• exact
• close
• implacable
• dogged
• painstaking
• unrelenting
• harsh
• unyielding
• single-minded
• hardened
• fussy
• determined
• firm
• stern
• resolved
• adamantine
• severe
• immovable
• austere
• unsparing
• demanding
• grim
• flinty
• hard
• unappeasable
• hard-hearted
• ironbound

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• flexible
• loose
• lax
• slack
• relaxed
• compliant
• pliant
• pliable
• gentle
• acquiescent
• mild
• easy
• soft
• lenient
• tolerant
• yielding
• merciful
• easygoing
• indulgent
• kindly
• compromising
• negligent
• slovenly
• sloppy
• neglectful
• relenting
• slipshod
• remiss
• spoiling
• pampering
• unfussy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of hard-line

In contrast to the many hawks in the new Trump cabinet who call for a hard-line approach on China, Musk is a striking outlier. —Linggong Kong, The Conversation, 24 Feb. 2025

This is part of a far-right surge sweeping Europe, where hard-line nationalists have already cultivated ties with President Donald Trump’s White House. —Alexander Smith, NBC News, 21 Feb. 2025

Republicans in the Senate have essentially delayed any decision on those thorny details, focusing instead on delivering an early win to Mr. Trump in the form of money for his hard-line anti-immigration agenda. —Catie Edmondson, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2025

Punk was a cocktail slammer of shock, alienation, and spite, but such a hard-line aesthetic could last only so long. —Ian Penman, Harper's Magazine, 19 Feb. 2025