Steamroller

A steamroller is a heavy, motorized roller used to compact materials like soil, gravel, or asphalt, creating a smooth, level surface. Figuratively, it describes a relentless force that crushes opposition, ignores obstacles, and bulldozes its way to victory or dominance. It implies a powerful, often overwhelming, process or entity that forcefully removes resistance to achieve a specific goal, disregarding the concerns or needs of those in its path. The term often carries connotations of inflexibility, insensitivity, and a lack of consideration for alternative perspectives. Steamrolling can apply to various contexts, from political campaigns and legislative actions to business strategies and personal relationships.

Steamroller meaning with examples

• The construction crew used the steamroller to compact the new asphalt on the road, ensuring a durable surface for traffic. The massive machine flattened the loose material, creating a solid foundation. It's a classic example of using a steamroller for its original purpose: to ensure the highest quality road surface. Without this step the road would not be suitable for the weight of modern vehicles, or to the speeds at which vehicles travel.
• The incumbent candidate launched a steamroller campaign, flooding the airwaves with advertisements and deploying a massive volunteer effort to silence all opposing voices. They didn't care who they offended in their climb to the top and victory was almost guaranteed by election day. They were only interested in crushing the opposition, completely disregarding any ethical concerns or issues.
• The company adopted a steamroller approach to acquiring its competitors, buying out any company that they had the money to acquire. The relentless barrage of financial offers left smaller firms unable to compete or consolidate and eventually left one dominant company. By constantly offering to acquire other companies, they left a trail of destruction.
• In their argument, the lawyer steamrollered the opposing counsel, constantly interrupting and using aggressive questioning to undermine their case. They didn't allow the opposing attorney a chance to breathe. They used the emotional response of the opposing attorney to get ahead. The lawyer aimed to dismantle the opposition's defense and dominate the courtroom.
• The bill was steamrolled through parliament with little debate. This allowed very few opportunities to speak and the speed at which the vote happened left many people wondering if it was the right call.