are headstrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are headstrong" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is determined and stubborn in their opinions or actions. Example: "Despite the warnings from her friends, she remained headstrong in her decision to travel alone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Both are headstrong.

The New York Times - Sports

We will let go of our most basic needs in submission to God, and we cannot be tempted by desires or needs: we are headstrong.

Huffington Post

Headstrong and Bossy Mr. Sendak's characters, by contrast, are headstrong, bossy, even obnoxious.

The New York Times - Books

RD: No, even though we are headstrong people... SH: It kind of depends who we want to win.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The two have very different personalities and, as Phillips noted yesterday, both are headstrong, and clashes are inevitable.

The New York Times - Sports

"The perception is that entrepreneurs are headstrong, and that is not a womanly virtue in an arranged marriage situation," she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But she's headstrong.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Knopf Sr was headstrong.

The Guardian - Books

Storonsky is headstrong on his mission to become the Jeff Bezos of banking, warts and all.

Forbes

Rebel pups will be personable, without being headstrong.

WikiHow

She's headstrong and temperamental.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "are headstrong", ensure it accurately reflects the subject's tendency to act independently and potentially disregard advice. Consider the context to determine if a more nuanced term like 'determined' or 'independent-minded' might be more appropriate.

Common error

While "are headstrong" is generally acceptable, it can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting recklessness or stubbornness. In formal or professional writing, consider using 'determined' or 'resolute' to convey a similar meaning with a more positive tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are headstrong" functions as a predicate adjective describing a subject's characteristic. It typically follows a linking verb (e.g., 'are', 'is', 'seem') and modifies the noun or pronoun it refers to, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are headstrong" is a commonly used predicate adjective that describes someone as determined and often stubborn. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While generally neutral, the term can carry a slightly negative connotation. Context is key when using this phrase, as more positive alternatives like 'determined' or 'resolute' might be more appropriate in some situations. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are willful

Emphasizes a deliberate and stubborn determination to have one's own way.

are obstinate

Highlights an unyielding and stubborn refusal to change one's mind or course of action.

are stubborn

Focuses on a firm resistance to persuasion or change.

are determined

Stresses a firm decision to achieve a particular goal, even in the face of difficulties.

are strong-willed

Suggests a resolute and independent character.

are self-assertive

Implies a confident and forceful expression of one's own opinions and desires.

are independent-minded

Highlights a tendency to form one's own opinions and make one's own decisions, without being influenced by others.

are intransigent

Implies a complete refusal to compromise or agree.

are uncompromising

Highlights an unwillingness to make concessions or modify one's position.

are defiant

Suggests a bold resistance to authority or opposition.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says people "are headstrong"?

When people "are headstrong", it means they are determined to do things their own way, often disregarding advice or warnings from others. It implies a degree of stubbornness and independence.

Which is the better alternative: "are headstrong" or "are strong-willed"?

Both "are headstrong" and "are strong-willed" describe someone determined, but "are headstrong" can sometimes suggest a lack of consideration for others' opinions, while "are strong-willed" typically implies a more positive and admirable firmness.

How can I use the phrase "are headstrong" in a sentence?

You can use "are headstrong" to describe individuals or groups who are determined and sometimes stubborn in their actions. For example: "Despite the risks, they "are headstrong" and insist on pursuing their goals."

What are some synonyms for saying someone "are headstrong"?

Synonyms for "are headstrong" include "are willful", "are obstinate", and "are stubborn". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.