obstinate

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'obstinate' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone who is refusing to change their opinion or position on something, and is stubbornly refusing to accept other people's advice. For example: "The obstinate man refused to listen to anyone's advice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Thran" translates as stubborn or obstinate and neatly encapsulates the attitude of that tribe at the edge of the union in all matters including politics.

The Guardian

This lingering insularity, encouraged by what he regarded as the obstinate egotism and narrow vision of his successor, provided him with a cause that saved him from that elder statesman's fate of subsiding into the Lords or persisting on the Commons backbenches like an extinct volcano.

The Guardian

Particularly around the invasion of Iraq, and later the obstinate refusal of Howard to ratify the Kyoto protocol, Howard was prepared to sideline other relationships in order to please the US.

The Guardian

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

The Guardian

Liam wouldn't attempt Noel's parts – partly because he couldn't hit Noel's notes (he often has only a partial acquaintance with his own), but mainly due to an obstinate, competitive sense of pride.

The Guardian - Music

Though widely regarded as obstinate, Ms Rousseff insists that she has learned to listen and to change.

The Economist

It looks increasingly likely that Ukraine will fail to reach an agreement by June, which could delay the disbursement of a badly needed $2.5 billion loan from the IMF.Even in the face of obstinate creditors, says the IMF, all is not lost.

The Economist

Those who have clashed with her, and some of those who have not, describe her as obstinate, abrasive, quick-tempered, opinionated, domineering.

The Economist

In Montana a Democratic governor faces an obstinate Republican legislature.

The Economist

KING GYANENDRA, Nepal's obstinate dictator, appears to be in a tight spot.

The Economist

As for the EU budget, many political leaders gathering in Brussels next week are more concerned about the proposals by the current British EU presidency to cut regional aid and other spending than about France's obstinate defence of the CAP.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obstinate" to describe inanimate objects that are hard to remove or subdue, adding a sense of frustration or difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "obstinate" to describe behavior that is generally seen as positive, such as dedication to a cause. While "obstinate" implies persistence, it also carries a connotation of unreasonableness and inflexibility. Use terms like "determined" or "resolute" for positive connotations.

Linguistic Context

The word "obstinate" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe a quality of stubbornness or inflexibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. Examples show it describing people, behaviors, and even inanimate objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obstinate" is a versatile adjective that describes a stubborn refusal to change or yield. While grammatically correct and commonly used, as verified by Ludwig AI, it carries a negative connotation and should be used carefully in contexts where neutrality is desired. It appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, as shown by Ludwig, indicating a neutral formality level. When using "obstinate", consider whether synonyms like "determined" or "resolute" might be more appropriate depending on the intended meaning and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stubborn

A common synonym, implying a firm refusal to change one's mind or position.

unyielding

Emphasizes the inflexibility and resistance to pressure or influence.

intransigent

Highlights a refusal to compromise or agree, often in a political context.

adamant

Stresses the firmness and determination behind the refusal to change.

obdurate

Suggests a hardness of heart or insensitivity to persuasion.

mulish

Implies a stubbornness akin to that of a mule, often seen as unreasonable.

pigheaded

Conveys a foolish or unreasonable stubbornness.

tenacious

Highlights a strong will and determination, sometimes to an excessive degree.

dogged

Indicates persistence and determination, often in the face of difficulty.

willful

Emphasizes the deliberate and intentional nature of the stubbornness.

FAQs

How can I use "obstinate" in a sentence?

You can use "obstinate" to describe someone who stubbornly refuses to change their opinion or course of action. For example: "The "obstinate child" refused to eat his vegetables."

What are some synonyms for "obstinate"?

Synonyms for "obstinate" include "stubborn", "unyielding", and "intransigent". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "obstinate" and "determined"?

"Obstinate" implies a stubborn refusal to change, often seen negatively, while "determined" suggests a firm resolve to achieve a goal, usually viewed positively. It's a matter of perspective: one person's determination might be another's obstinacy.

Is it appropriate to use "obstinate" in formal writing?

Yes, "obstinate" is appropriate in formal writing when used accurately to describe someone's stubborn refusal to yield. However, be mindful of the negative connotation and consider whether a more neutral term might be more suitable.