hard-hitting

adjective

hard-hit·​ting ˈhärd-ˈhi-tiŋ 

: strikingly effective in force or result

a hard-hitting exposé

plain hard-hitting English

Examples of hard-hitting in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With so much varsity experience back for a program known for its grit and hard-hitting style, the Vanguards should be in the hunt for one of the league’s three automatic playoff berths. — Steve Fryer, Oc Register, 10 Aug. 2026

The hard-hitting match made use of a table, chairs, steel steps and a ring mat, but not the cell. — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Shady Srour is a Palestinian-Israeli auteur making his way in a difficult climate to produce hard-hitting work. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 July 2026

Along with his leadership, Gudas is a physical, hard-hitting presence, much like the rest of the Panthers’ roster. — Ava Dicecca, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hard-hitting

• acquitting
• admitting
• befitting
• committing
• emitting
• omitting
• outfitting
• outwitting
• permitting
• refitting
• remitting
• submitting