are obstinate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are obstinate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is stubborn or unyielding in attitude or behavior. Example: "Despite the evidence presented, they are obstinate in their refusal to change their minds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But the country's squabbling politicians are obstinate.

The New Yorker

"But we Turks are obstinate people.

The New York Times

One of their salient characteristics is that they are obstinate.

The Guardian

Or as Naomi Bliven, the longtime New Yorker writer, once wrote, "Food preferences, like language, are obstinate cultural traits".

The New York Times - Food

If your ideas about how the world should look are obstinate enough, Doonan suggests, you can will yourself into a new environment.

The New Yorker

But 61percentt are obstinate by their own admission.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

I'm obstinate.

The New York Times

The humor is obstinate.

The New York Times - Arts

Heath was obstinate, but he didn't have strength.

The Guardian

Once again, Tyler motioned him, but Max was obstinate".

The New York Times - Sports

Whereas what Cézanne did was obstinate, persistent, difficult.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are obstinate", consider the connotation of unreasonable stubbornness. If you wish to convey determination without the negative implication, a word like "resolute" or "determined" might be more appropriate.

Common error

While "obstinate" is a valid word, it can sound overly formal or even pretentious in everyday conversation. In many cases, simpler words like "stubborn" or "unyielding" are more effective and natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are obstinate" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing a quality or characteristic of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a stubborn or unyielding nature. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in describing politicians, people, or even inanimate objects.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are obstinate" functions as a predicate adjective to describe stubbornness or unyielding behavior, frequently with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI reports, this is considered grammatically correct. While not exceptionally common, its usage is primarily found in news and media contexts. For alternative phrasing, consider "are stubborn" or "are unyielding" for more common or neutral alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are stubborn

A more common and direct synonym for being obstinate.

are unyielding

Emphasizes inflexibility and resistance to change.

are inflexible

Highlights a lack of adaptability.

are adamant

Focuses on the firmness of conviction.

are intransigent

Stresses unwillingness to compromise.

are resistant

Indicates opposition or unwillingness to accept something.

are defiant

Suggests open resistance to authority.

are headstrong

Highlights impulsiveness and a determination to have one's own way.

are pigheaded

A more informal and negative way to describe stubbornness.

are bullheaded

Similar to 'pigheaded', but perhaps a bit less pejorative, also informal.

FAQs

What does "are obstinate" mean?

The phrase "are obstinate" means to be stubbornly adhering to an opinion, purpose, or course, often implying unreasonableness.

What can I say instead of "are obstinate"?

You can use alternatives like "are stubborn", "are unyielding", or "are inflexible" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "are obstinate" or "are stubborn"?

"Are stubborn" is generally more common and widely understood. "Are obstinate" carries a slightly more formal and negative connotation, implying a more unreasonable or willful stubbornness. The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "are obstinate" and "are resolute"?

While both terms describe a firmness of purpose, "are obstinate" implies a stubborn, often unreasonable adherence to an idea or course. In contrast, "are resolute" suggests a determined and unwavering commitment to a goal, typically with positive connotations of strength and purpose.