play hardball

Register · Neutral Neutral — appropriate in most situations, both spoken and written, without sounding too casual or too stiff. CEFR C1

Post

Example

“The union played hardball and refused every offer.”

Dictionary details

Component words

play

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

play for time Neutral · CEFR B2

to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome

play with fire Neutral · CEFR B2

to take a serious risk that is likely to bring harmful consequences

playbook Neutral · CEFR B2

a set of proven methods, tactics, and moves for a given situation

ballpark figure Informal · CEFR B1

a rough estimate, not an exact number

give someone a run for their money Neutral · CEFR B1

to compete nearly as well as a much stronger opponent, forcing them to work hard for victory

put something on the table Neutral · CEFR B1

to offer something for consideration in a discussion or negotiation

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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