as stubborn as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as stubborn as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is very obstinate or unwilling to change their mind. Example: "She is as stubborn as a mule when it comes to her opinions on politics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Leonora, however, is as stubborn as a mule.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Through all this, Hird stood as stubborn as a mule.

The Guardian - Sport

But one thing that has not changed: Ewing's confidence is still as stubborn as a grass stain.

The New York Times - Sports

He may be as stubborn as a grease stain, but Miller has parlayed his untamed approach into a bewildering four World Cup titles this season.

The New York Times - Sports

Speaking of longevity, Tom Ford's new Waterproof Foundation/Concealer (£68; out next month) is as stubborn as a mule and so ideal if you're prone to hot flushes, excessive perspiration or oiliness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was tough, but I, like my mother, am as stubborn as a mule.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Arsenal's Olivier Giroud, right, a France international, describes himself as stubborn, as well as ambitious and intelligent.

The Guardian - Sport

When he wants to be, Mallinder can be as stubborn as any Yorkshireman.

The Guardian - Sport

He's as stubborn as his father - a chip off the old block in other words.

BBC

But then again, only someone as stubborn as Nas could find a way to deliver such a firm, arresting, if occasionally nonsensical verse atop it.

The New York Times - Arts

And yet, Netanyahu remains as stubborn as ever, laying out a policy position that's shared by exactly zero other countries in diplomatic talks with Iran - the United States especially.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider substituting synonyms for "stubborn" to enhance the impact of the phrase. Words like "obstinate", "intractable", or "unyielding" can provide nuanced shades of meaning.

Common error

Avoid using comparisons that weaken the intended meaning. Saying someone is "as stubborn as a child" might suggest immaturity rather than resolute inflexibility. Choose analogies carefully to match the desired impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as stubborn as a" functions as a simile, an adjective phrase used for comparison. It describes the degree of someone's stubbornness by likening it to something known for its unyielding nature. As shown by Ludwig, it's typically used to intensify the description of a person's unwillingness to change or compromise.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Lifestyle

20%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as stubborn as a" is a simile used to describe someone or something that is extremely obstinate. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not as common as other idioms, it effectively communicates a strong sense of inflexibility. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Lifestyle contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the object of comparison (e.g. mule, rock) reinforces the intended meaning of unyielding resistance. While the phrase can sometimes imply a positive attribute, such as persistence, its connotation is primarily negative, conveying a resistance to change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as obstinate as a mule

Replaces "stubborn" with "obstinate" and retains the mule comparison, emphasizing resistance to change.

extremely headstrong

Uses a single adjective to describe someone who insists on having their own way.

utterly intractable

Replaces "stubborn" with "intractable", conveying the difficulty in managing or controlling someone.

as inflexible as iron

Uses the analogy of iron to convey the lack of adaptability and rigidity.

set in their ways

Describes someone who is fixed in their habits and resistant to change.

as unyielding as a rock

Compares stubbornness to the immovability of a rock, highlighting the firm and unwavering nature.

as persistent as a tick

Focuses on the tenacious and unrelenting aspect of stubbornness, drawing a comparison to a tick's grip.

as resolute as a soldier

Emphasizes the unwavering determination and steadfastness, similar to a soldier's commitment.

as determined as an athlete

Highlights the strong will and commitment to achieve a goal, characteristic of stubbornness.

completely uncooperative

Shifts from figurative language to a direct description of unwillingness to work with others.

FAQs

What does "as stubborn as a" mean?

The phrase "as stubborn as a" is an idiom used to describe someone who is very obstinate, inflexible, and unwilling to change their mind or give in to persuasion. The comparison highlights a strong resistance to influence.

What can I say instead of "as stubborn as a"?

You can use alternatives like "as obstinate as a mule", "as inflexible as iron", or "completely uncooperative" depending on the context.

Is it always negative to be described as "as stubborn as a"?

While often negative, describing someone as "as stubborn as a" can sometimes imply a positive attribute, such as persistence or determination, especially when facing adversity. The connotation depends heavily on the situation.

How do I use "as stubborn as a" in a sentence?

You can use "as stubborn as a" to describe a person, a thing, or even a situation. For example: "She is as stubborn as a mule when she doesn't get her way", or "The stain was as stubborn as a grease stain and wouldn't come out".