Definition
To use every means possible to achieve a goal, especially in disregarding the harm caused.
To act rough and ruthless, especially in business or politics.
Origins
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).
In Context
- "He was more than willing to extend the terms of the loan, but his boss decided to play hardball and demanded a balloon payment."
- "So you wanna play hardball?"
- "But if ministers keep on playing hardball with TfL because of narrow party interests, London will lose out. Forcing a 4.8% rise on London fares will only encourage congestion at a time when the roads are already full and public transport is underused."