hardball

American  

[hahrd-bawl] / ˈhɑrdˌbɔl /

noun

1. baseball, as distinguished from softball.

---

adjective

1. tough or ruthless.

   He wasn't ready for the hardball politics of Washington.

2. outspoken, challenging, or difficult.

   Reporters asked the president some hardball questions.

idioms

1. play hardball, to act or work aggressively, competitively, or ruthlessly, as in business or politics.

hardball British  

/ ˈhɑːdbɔːl /

noun

1. baseball as distinct from softball

2. informal to act in a ruthless or uncompromising way

---

Etymology

Origin of hardball

First recorded in 1825–35; hard + ball ¹

Example Sentences

Live Nation’s biggest competitor, Anschutz Entertainment Group, is likely to talk about how its rival plays hardball to keep its promotion and ticketing business.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

In a statement, Danbury Parish Council said "no adult hardball cricket" could be played at the venue "for the foreseeable future".

From BBC • Oct. 1, 2025

And Variety has noted that persistent hardball could win these companies FCC favor—but also inspire Disney to no longer offer ABC as an affiliate option when negotiations between networks and broadcasters come up next year.

From Slate • Sep. 23, 2025

That does not mean our state capitol is lacking for some serious hardball.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 11, 2025

You want to play hardball, Brooklyn thought as she looked at her rival.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti