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Play hardball Meaning in English

expression

ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈhɑɹdˌbɔɫ
PLAY HARD-bawl
plˈeɪ/ /hˈɑːdbɔːl
play HAHD-bawl

释义

To act aggressively, strictly, or with tough tactics to get what you want, especially in business or negotiations.

用法与细微差别

Informal expression, mostly in business, politics, or serious situations. Implies being tough, not compromised, and sometimes ruthless. Often used when someone stops being gentle or flexible to get results.

例句

Sometimes you have to play hardball to win a contract.

basic

If they raise their prices, we may need to play hardball.

basic

He is ready to play hardball during these talks.

basic

Our competitors started to play hardball, so we had to respond.

natural

You can't always be nice—sometimes you need to play hardball to get respect.

natural

They thought we would back down, but we decided to play hardball this time.

natural