HARD-NOSED Synonyms: 112 Similar and Opposite Words

hard-nosed

adjective

ˈhärd-ˈnōzd

as in stubborn

sticking to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion the team's hard-nosed coach doesn't make exceptions for anybody

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hard-nosed While seemingly every other player struggled to hit shots or got in foul trouble, the 5-foot-7 Booher played an integral role, running the offense, making two key shots and playing hard-nosed defense in the Corsairs’ 41-37 loss to Rolling Meadows. —

Bobby Narang, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026 On Sunday it was revealed that hard-nosed winger Marcus Foligno will miss time with a lower body injury. —

Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 1 Mar. 2026 The recent moves by general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley indicate that Club Mike, the resort-like atmosphere the Dolphins basked in for the previous four seasons, is truly coming to an end and this franchise is about to return to serious, hard-nosed football. —

Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026 Beard is a hard-nosed sort who could still be heated from getting ejected in Tuesday night’s 84-66 loss at Tennessee. —

Thomas Jones, Austin American Statesman, 6 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hard-nosed

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hard-nosed

Adjective

Its hot water wash dissolves stubborn grease on the mop pads, while its specialized Curv design prevents long hair from tangling around the brushes.

— Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 17 Mar. 2026
For any stubborn coffee stains on the carafe, apply baking soda directly to the interior surface and gently scrub with a soft sponge or toothbrush.

— Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 16 Mar. 2026