adamant

USAGE SUMMARY

'adamant' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used as an adjective to describe someone who is uncompromising, unyielding, and determined. For example: "The senator was adamant in his opposition to the proposed legislation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Darling and Alexander were adamant that, for all their fears, they made the right decision on the currency.

The Guardian

Nick was privately educated and is adamant that his children will be, too.

The Guardian

"Arnold was absolutely adamant that it had to be played straight.

The Guardian

He was adamant, however that the university remains "committed" to freedom of speech and peaceful protest.

The Guardian

Oral testimony is insufficient: the villagers always start off adamant that they do not go to the forest at all, they then say they only go to collect dry firewood from the forest floor, and finally admit that some people do take part in illegal activity, though not people from their village.

The Guardian

Cridland, however, was adamant that fostering growth and cutting the deficit were not mutually exclusive.

The Guardian - Business

He is adamant that they are determined to rebuild the structure as faithfully as possible to the original.

The Guardian - Arts

But the Tanzanian government is adamant the issue is simple: "It is very straightforward," says a government official, "if the situation [that made the refugees flee] comes to an end, and we believe that it has, then they have to go back to their country of origin".

The Guardian

When the rat was first sighted – scurrying across the doorstep of Number 10 as the BBC's Gary O'Donoghue did a piece to camera – David Cameron's people were adamant.

The Guardian - Opinion

While Grace concedes some will see the issue as "trivial compared with Libya or housing", he is adamant that it matters: "I attend conference because Yeovil Liberal Democrats elect me, not because the police allow me to.

The Guardian - Opinion

There have been some – albeit rather spurious – suggestions that England's captain might have considered his own position during this series, but Cook was adamant he has never been close to resigning.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adamant" when you want to convey a strong sense of conviction and unwavering determination. It's particularly effective when describing someone's firm stance on a controversial issue.

Common error

While "adamant" is a powerful word, avoid using it excessively. Vary your language by using synonyms like "resolute", "unwavering", or "determined" to maintain a natural and engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "adamant" primarily functions to describe a person or entity's unwavering stance, determination, or refusal to yield. Ludwig AI indicates that it signifies an unshakeable conviction, as seen in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "adamant" is an adjective used to describe someone who is firm in their belief or stance and unwilling to change their mind. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable word in written English. Its primary function is to emphasize strength of position. It is very common in News & Media. When using "adamant", ensure you are conveying the intended sense of unwavering determination, and consider synonyms like "resolute" or "steadfast" for variety. Be aware not to overuse it. Remember that being "adamant" can be a powerful way to express conviction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwavering

Indicates a firm and resolute stance, similar to "adamant", but emphasizes the consistency of the stance.

resolute

Highlights the firmness and determination in pursuing a goal or belief, mirroring the strength conveyed by "adamant".

determined

Focuses on the strong intention to achieve something, akin to the resolve implied by "adamant".

unyielding

Emphasizes the inflexibility and resistance to change, similar to the firmness suggested by "adamant".

inflexible

Stresses the rigidity and unwillingness to compromise, reflecting a key aspect of being "adamant".

steadfast

Suggests a firm and unwavering commitment, sharing the sense of resolute determination with "adamant".

firm

Implies a strong and unwavering position, similar to the resolute nature of being "adamant".

insistent

Highlights the persistent and emphatic assertion of a point, mirroring the forceful conviction of someone "adamant".

uncompromising

Emphasizes the refusal to make concessions or yield, aligning with the unwavering stance of someone "adamant".

obstinate

Implies a stubborn refusal to change one's mind or course of action, capturing a more negative connotation of being "adamant".

FAQs

How can I use "adamant" in a sentence?

You can use "adamant" to describe someone's unwavering stance or determination. For example, "The witness was adamant that she had seen the suspect at the scene."

What are some synonyms for "adamant"?

Alternatives to "adamant" include "resolute", "unwavering", "determined", and "inflexible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "adamant" or "insistent"?

"Adamant" implies a stronger, more unyielding stance than "insistent". While both suggest firmness, "adamant" conveys a deeper level of conviction. Use "adamant" when describing an unshakable belief or position.

What does "adamant" mean in a negotiation context?

In negotiations, being "adamant" suggests a refusal to compromise or make concessions. It indicates a firm position that is unlikely to change, even under pressure.