obstinacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'obstinacy' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong, inflexible adherence to an opinion or action. For example, "His obstinacy was impressive as he refused to back down from his position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With his slight frame and boyish looks, Brown may look like a soft touch, but there's a tough, unyielding obstinacy to him.

The Guardian - Music

Singlemindedness and determination could also look like obstinacy and arrogance.

The Guardian

It was a combination of strength and obstinacy.

The Guardian

After Mr Obama's lofty rhetoric ran up against the immovable obstinacy of an entrenched Republican-majority Congress, America may be ready for leadership by prose rather than through poetry.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is still every chance that the party could become so fed up with the DUP's obstinacy on the policing and justice question that Martin McGuinness resigns as the deputy first minister, triggering the end of the three-year experiment in power-sharing.

The Guardian

Amid all the new national confidence were the stirrings of a republican renaissance, which was given lethal impetus three years later when sectarian violence erupted in Belfast as the unionist regime reacted with typical obstinacy to the reformist demands of the civil rights movement.

The Guardian

But government obstinacy means "peace for prisoners" is unlikely.

The Economist

His greatness lies not just in the scale of his success, but in the difficulty of the path he trod and in the obstinacy of the many who tried to thwart him.

The Economist

On June 6th, an explosion at a Vientiane bus station killed at least two people.In this section Back to the barricades Rural unrest Mori's B Team The obstinacy of Kashmir India's limping tigers The ex-communists storm back Armed protest in Laos ReprintsAs in the Wang attack, no one has taken responsibility for the blasts.

The Economist

Wall Street's obstinacy has worked wonders for Kinshasa's economy.

The Economist

Mr Thuc's obstinacy earned him a 16-year sentence.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obstinacy" when you want to emphasize a strong, often unreasonable, adherence to one's own opinions or actions. Consider the context carefully, as it can carry a negative connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "obstinacy" when "persistence" or "determination" would be more appropriate. "Obstinacy" often implies a negative inflexibility, while "persistence" suggests a positive commitment to a goal despite challenges.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "obstinacy" is as a noun. It refers to the quality or state of being stubborn or refusing to change one's mind or course of action. Ludwig's examples show it used in various contexts, from political negotiations to personal character assessments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obstinacy" is a noun that describes the quality of being stubbornly resistant to change or persuasion. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and frequent usage, particularly in News & Media and Encyclopedias. While sometimes confused with positive traits like persistence, it often carries a negative connotation, implying an unreasonable inflexibility. When writing, consider whether "obstinacy" accurately captures the intended meaning, or if a more neutral term like determination would be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stubbornness

Implies a more negative connotation of being unwilling to change one's mind or course of action.

inflexibility

Highlights the rigidity and lack of adaptability in thought or behavior.

doggedness

Emphasizes a tenacious and persistent quality, often admired for its determination.

intransigence

Indicates a complete unwillingness to compromise or negotiate.

pigheadedness

Suggests foolish and unreasonable stubbornness.

mulishness

Implies a stubbornness likened to that of a mule, resistant to being led.

tenacity

Focuses on the quality of holding firmly to something, like a goal or belief.

recalcitrance

Refers to an uncooperative attitude or resistance to authority.

determination

Highlights a firm decision to do something, even in the face of difficulty.

firmness

Indicates a resolute and unwavering stance.

FAQs

How can I use "obstinacy" in a sentence?

"Obstinacy" is typically used to describe a stubborn or inflexible adherence to one's own course of action or opinions. For example, "The negotiator's "obstinacy" made reaching an agreement impossible."

What are some words similar to "obstinacy"?

Alternatives to "obstinacy" include "stubbornness", "inflexibility", "doggedness", and "intransigence", each carrying slightly different nuances of inflexibility or determination.

Is "obstinacy" a positive or negative trait?

Whether "obstinacy" is seen as positive or negative depends on the context. While it can signify unwavering resolve, it often implies an unreasonable refusal to change one's mind or actions, potentially hindering progress or relationships.

What's the difference between "obstinacy" and "determination"?

"Obstinacy" often implies a rigid and unreasonable adherence to a belief or course of action, while "determination" suggests a firm resolve to achieve a goal, often seen as a more positive trait.