obstinance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "obstinancy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun and means the quality or state of being obstinate or stubborn. Example: Despite numerous warnings, her obstinancy led her to continue climbing the dangerous mountain.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

To this point, Mr Hayward's tone has been one of obstinance, avoidance and, to a certain extent, incompetence.

The Economist

Indeed, it was long a staple of Hollywood lore that Cukor was fired as the director of Gone with the Wind (1939) as a result of homophobic obstinance on the part of male lead Clark Gable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But such is the obtuseness, and obstinance, of the reigning order: even in the time of merry inversion, on a designated day of freedom, and in the suit of revelry, it still performs its power.

The New Yorker

LeBlanc would become indispensable in a game of defensive obstinance.

The New York Times - Sports

After months of obstinance, Ms. Merkel has softened her stance — saying that Germany is open to stimulus to spur growth, employment and development in Greece and pledging to work with the new French president, François Hollande, on a program to promote growth across recession-racked Europe.

The New York Times

It isn't subtle, but through ingratiation and obstinance she ends up seeing a lot.

The New York Times - Arts

Redeeming someone like Kemp, whose power lies in his blind obstinance, is like trying to bring the dead to life.

The New York Times - Books

Its preservation and elaborate rehabilitation reflect the obstinance and inspired dedication of the artist's son and daughter, Flavin and Rainer Judd, now 45 and 42.

The New York Times - Arts

"The city's obstinance and uncooperativeness throughout the present actions is offensive to the rule of law.

The New York Times

Trump's stated intent to pull the US out of the TPP on his first day in office underlines the new reality we inhabit, as does the European Union's recent troubles closing a trade agreement with Canada thanks to Wallonia's obstinance.

The Guardian - Business

Communist troops raided Averkiev's home after the 1917 revolution in an effort to confiscate and destroy signs of wealth, but Averkiev refused to reveal the location of the jewelry and was killed for his obstinance.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obstinance" to describe a persistent and often unreasonable refusal to change one's mind or course of action. It's stronger than simple disagreement and implies a willful resistance.

Common error

Avoid using "obstinance" when you mean to describe a justified firmness or conviction. "Obstinance" carries a negative connotation of unreasonable stubbornness.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "obstinance" is as a noun, referring to the quality or state of being obstinate. It names the characteristic of stubbornness or unwillingness to change one's mind, as shown by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obstinance" functions as a noun that describes the quality of being stubborn and unwilling to change. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, primarily in news and media, as well as encyclopedia entries, where it often carries a negative connotation. While grammatically sound, it's important to differentiate "obstinance" from positive traits like determination. Understanding its implications and context is crucial for effective communication. Remember to avoid using it when describing justified firmness, and consider synonyms like "stubbornness" or "inflexibility" to refine your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stubborn refusal

Emphasizes the act of refusing and the characteristic of being stubborn.

unyielding resolve

Highlights the firmness and determination in one's decision.

adamant stance

Focuses on the firmness and inflexibility of a position or attitude.

inflexible attitude

Stresses the rigidity and lack of adaptability in one's mindset.

dogged determination

Emphasizes persistence and unwavering commitment despite challenges.

willful resistance

Highlights the deliberate and intentional nature of the opposition.

pigheadedness

Implies a foolish and unreasonable stubbornness.

mulishness

Suggests a stubbornness likened to that of a mule, unwilling to be moved.

intransigence

Highlights the complete unwillingness to compromise or agree.

unshakeable conviction

Emphasizes the deep-seated belief and unwavering faith in one's position.

FAQs

How is "obstinance" typically used in a sentence?

"Obstinance" is used to describe a state of being stubborn and refusing to change one's mind or behavior. For example, "His "stubborn refusal" to listen led to many problems".

What are some synonyms for "obstinance"?

Alternatives for "obstinance" include "stubbornness", "inflexibility", and "pigheadedness", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is "obstinance" a positive or negative trait?

"Obstinance" generally carries a negative connotation, implying unreasonable stubbornness. However, in some contexts, it can suggest a "strong resolve" against something perceived as wrong.

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

"Obstinance" implies a stubborn refusal to change, while "determination" suggests a firm resolve to achieve a goal. The key difference lies in the reason behind the unwavering stance; "obstinance" often lacks a rational basis, unlike "dogged determination".