hard-nosed

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈnōzd 

1

: being tough, stubborn, or uncompromising

a hard-nosed boss

2

: hardheaded sense 2, tough-minded

Synonyms of hard-nosed

• stubborn
• adamant
• steadfast
• hardened

Examples of hard-nosed in a Sentence

the team's hard-nosed coach doesn't make exceptions for anybody

Recent Examples on the Web

Harbaugh, however, replenished the barren corner room with a hard-nosed player under cost control. —Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 4 May 2026

When the Magic hired Jamahl Mosley in July 2021, the first-time NBA head coach was tasked with developing a young team, setting a new standard for the future of the organization and building an identity that featured a hard-nosed defensive mindset. —Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 May 2026

Chicago is known for its hard-nosed politics and take-no-prisoners attitude. —Glenn Davis, Chicago Tribune, 3 May 2026

Through the eyes of a diverse cast, including hard-nosed law enforcement officers, controversial politicians, influential entrepreneurs, and notorious criminals, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of a city grappling with growth, crime, and political intrigue. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hard-nosed

• decomposed
• discomposed
• indisposed
• interposed
• juxtaposed
• predisposed
• presupposed
• reimposed
• superposed
• undisclosed
• undisposed
• unenclosed