be inflexible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be inflexible" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone or something that does not change or adapt easily. Example: "The manager tends to be inflexible when it comes to deadlines." Alternative expressions include "be rigid" and "be unyielding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Chloe, though, can be inflexible.

The New Yorker

The policy should not be inflexible.

The New York Times - Magazine

The system was built to be inflexible.

The New Yorker

Some have found Google to be inflexible in its terms.

The New York Times - Tech

One should not be inflexible or old-fashioned.

The New York Times

"We will be inflexible with those traitors," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

"No, he's inflexible".

The New York Times

Richard, meanwhile, is inflexible.

The Guardian - Opinion

"They're inflexible.

The New York Times

The deadline is inflexible.

The Washington Post

WHO says farmers are inflexible?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be inflexible", consider the potential negative connotations. While firmness can be a virtue, excessive inflexibility can hinder progress and damage relationships. Assess the context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the desired level of rigidity.

Common error

Avoid using "be inflexible" when a milder term like "be firm" or "be consistent" would be more appropriate. Overstating inflexibility can make you sound unreasonable or unwilling to compromise.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be inflexible" is to act as a predicate, describing the state or quality of a subject. As shown by Ludwig, it typically describes entities (people, systems, policies) as lacking adaptability. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be inflexible" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a lack of adaptability or willingness to change. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage across various contexts, from news and media to scientific research. While the phrase itself is neutral in register, its connotations can be negative, so it's important to consider the specific context and choose the most appropriate phrasing. As Ludwig AI confirms, understanding the nuances of "be inflexible" allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be uncompromising

Focuses on the refusal to make concessions.

be unyielding

Highlights a lack of flexibility or compromise.

remain rigid

This suggests a continued state of inflexibility.

be intractable

Suggests being difficult to manage or change.

hold firm

Implies maintaining a strict stance or position.

stay firm

Implies a strong, unwavering stance.

not give way

Conveys the idea of resisting change or pressure.

not budge

Suggests an unwillingness to change position or opinion.

dig in one's heels

Indicates a firm and stubborn resistance to change.

stick to one's guns

Refers to maintaining one's position or beliefs despite opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "be inflexible" in a sentence?

You can use "be inflexible" to describe a person, rule, or system that is resistant to change or adaptation. For example, "The company's policies "are inflexible" when it comes to remote work."

What are some alternatives to "be inflexible"?

Alternatives include "be unyielding", "be rigid", or "be uncompromising", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to "be inflexible"?

It may be appropriate to "be inflexible" when upholding core values, ensuring safety, or maintaining legal compliance. However, consider the potential consequences and whether flexibility could lead to a better outcome.

How does "be inflexible" differ from "be firm"?

"Be firm" suggests a strong and resolute stance, while "be inflexible" implies a lack of adaptability and a resistance to change. "Be firm" can be positive, while "be inflexible" often carries negative connotations.