hardballing

Hardballing is a form of dating between men and women that involves the man and the woman being very upfront and straightforwardly honest with each other about what their true desires, expectations, interests, and long-term intentions are beginning with the very first date or very first conversation.

If the man and woman decide after their first date that they are not on the same page (e.g., the man is only interested is only interested in a few episodes of short-term non-monogamous casual sex while the woman is more interested in a long-term, emotionally profound, strictly monogamous romantic relationship that will ultimately lead to marriage), then they will mutually agree to part ways without wasting any further time, energy, or money.

The concept was first introduced to the public by former Hollywood actress Cameron Diaz during a guest appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show in September 2021.

Woman: "Joe, what are you looking for in a romantic companion? Do you just want casual sex with me for a few weeks, and then go your own way? or are you looking for a meaningful relationship that will ultimately lead to marriage and having children and raising a family?"

Man: "Wow. Do you always ask these sort of questions during your very first date with a man?"

Woman: "Yes, I sure do. What I am doing is known as hardballing. I don't have time to waste on men who have different desires, interests, expectations, and long-term intentions than I do. I only want to spend time with men who are on the same page as myself!"