PhrasesHub

Drive a hard bargain

    Definitions

      • negotiating or bargaining aggressively or firmly
        To use assertive tactics and strong arguments in a negotiation or deal in order to achieve a favorable outcome or benefit for oneself

      • demanding or requesting a high price or deal
        To ask for a large or significant amount in exchange for goods or services, often in a forceful or insistent manner

      • being a tough or challenging negotiator
        To be difficult or uncompromising in a negotiation, making it challenging for the other party to reach a mutually beneficial agreement

    Examples of Drive a hard bargain

    • The salesman tried to drive a hard bargain, but I refused to pay more than the listed price.

      This idiom means to negotiate a deal in a very aggressive and demanding way, in order to get the best possible price or terms. In this example, the salesman is trying to get the buyer to pay more than the advertised price, but the buyer is being firm and unwilling to accept a higher price.

    • After months of negotiations, the two companies finally reached a deal that neither side was completely happy with, but it was better than driving a hard bargain any longer.

      In this example, the idiom is used to describe a long and difficult negotiation process, where both parties are trying to get the best possible outcome. Eventually, they reach a compromise that is less than ideal, but it is better than continuing to negotiate and driving a hard bargain.

    • The landlord tried to drive a hard bargain when I asked to renew my lease, but I knew my rights and stood my ground.

      In this example, the landlord is trying to take advantage of the tenant by demanding a higher rent or more restrictive terms for the lease renewal. The tenant, however, is knowledgeable about their rights and refuses to accept the landlord's demands, choosing instead to stand firm and negotiate a fair deal.

    • The car salesman tried to drive a hard bargain, but I had done my research and knew the true value of the car.

      In this example, the idiom is used to describe a situation where the salesperson is trying to get the buyer to pay more than the car is actually worth. The buyer, however, is well-informed and refuses to be taken advantage of, choosing instead to negotiate a fair price based on the true value of the car.

    • The CEO tried to drive a hard bargain with the union, but ultimately had to compromise in order to avoid a strike.

      In this example, the idiom is used to describe a situation where the employer is trying to negotiate terms with a union in a very aggressive and demanding way. The union, however, is also negotiating strongly, and ultimately both parties have to compromise in order to reach a resolution that avoids a strike.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "drive a hard bargain" typically refers to the act of being a tough or assertive negotiator, often in pursuit of personal gain or benefit. This can involve using strong tactics and arguments to achieve a desired outcome, as well as requesting a high price or deal. It can also describe someone who is generally tough or challenging in negotiations, making it difficult for others to reach a compromise.

    Origin of "Drive a hard bargain"

    The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The word "drive" was commonly used in the sense of "urge" or "compel," while "hard" referred to something that was difficult or challenging. Therefore, the phrase "drive a hard bargain" likely originated as a way to describe someone who was relentless and unyielding in their negotiations.

    In the past, bargaining was a common practice in many cultures and was often seen as a necessary skill for successful trade and commerce. Therefore, the act of driving a hard bargain was seen as a valuable and desirable trait. However, as language and customs evolved, the idiom came to be associated with more negative connotations, such as being overly aggressive or difficult to deal with. Nevertheless, it remains a commonly used expression in modern English, particularly in business and financial contexts.