Phrase guide

play hardball

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To use every means possible to achieve a goal, especially in disregarding the harm caused.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, informal

Examples

  • He was more than willing to extend the terms of the loan, but his boss decided to play hardball and demanded a balloon payment.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To act rough and ruthless, especially in business or politics.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, informal

Examples

  • So you wanna play hardball?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From the American sport of baseball; the hardball is the heavier and harder type of the two types of throwing ball used when playing that sport (i.e. softball).

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Polish: iść po trupach — Translations
  • Polish: pójść po trupach — Translations
  • Spanish: jugar duro — Translations
  • Swedish: sätta hårt mot hårt — Translations