take a hard line

take a hard line

1. To have or assume a very strict, inflexible, and unequivocal view or position (on or about something). I wouldn't come in late, if I were you—I hear the boss takes a hard line on the attendance policy. The film takes a hard line about the role of the government in this issue.

2. To deal (with someone) in a very strict or stringent manner. You've got to start taking a hard line with your kids, or they're going to walk all over you for the rest of your life. The principal takes a very hard line with students who vandalize school property.

See also: hard, line, take

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

take a hard line (with someone)

Fig. to be firm with someone; to have a firm policy for dealing with someone. The manager takes a hard line with people who show up late. This is a serious matter. The police are likely to take a hard line.

See also: hard, line, take

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.