There are several synonyms for the phrase "hard lines" which can be used depending on the context. One such alternative is "tough luck," referring to a difficult or unfavorable situation. Another commonly used phrase is "rough break," which often indicates a sudden or unexpected disappointment. Alternatively, "bad news" may be employed to convey a negative development or an unpleasant outcome. "Hard knocks" is another term that describes the difficulties or hardships encountered in life. Similarly, "hard times" can refer to challenging economic or personal circumstances. Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the speaker's intention and the context in which the phrase is used.