refusing to compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refusing to compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who is unwilling to make concessions or adjustments in a disagreement or negotiation. Example: "In the meeting, she stood her ground, refusing to compromise on her principles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Extremism that sabotages itself by refusing to compromise.

The New York Times - Arts

Trump also may gain more by refusing to compromise.

The Washington Post

Refusing to compromise, she took her own life on May 27 , 2002

University of California, Berkeley

But refusing to compromise with the jihadi does not mean becoming his mirror.

The Guardian - Opinion

Republicans accuse Democrats of refusing to compromise to have a campaign issue to run on.

The New York Times

By refusing to compromise on any of these terms, they build great companies.

Harvard Business Review

The Wolffs published only what they considered worthwhile, refusing to compromise or to be diverted by commerce.

The New Yorker

But this could only happen if the news media were willing to point out who is really refusing to compromise.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Instead, Yasser Arafat has refused to compromise.

The Economist

He refused to compromise or back down.

Independent

But Ensler refuses to compromise.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "refusing to compromise", ensure the context clearly explains why the compromise is being refused. Providing this context adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid simply stating someone is "refusing to compromise" without explaining the rationale behind their stance. This can make your writing seem biased or incomplete. Always provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refusing to compromise" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It describes the act of being unwilling to make concessions or reach an agreement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "refusing to compromise" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It describes the act of being unwilling to make concessions, often implying a state of conflict or disagreement. While it can carry negative connotations of stubbornness, it can also suggest integrity and adherence to principles. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, but is also present in Academic and Formal & Business contexts. When using "refusing to compromise", ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the rationale behind the refusal. Alternatives such as "being unyielding" or "standing firm" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being intransigent

Focuses on a lack of willingness to agree or cooperate.

not budging

Implies a complete refusal to move or concede in any way.

being unyielding

Focuses on the firmness and rigidity of one's stance.

remaining inflexible

Highlights a lack of adaptability or willingness to adjust.

remaining adamant

Highlights an unwavering and resolute stance.

standing firm

Emphasizes unwavering resolve and resistance to change.

digging in one's heels

Indicates a determined resistance to change or pressure.

holding one's ground

Stresses the act of defending one's position against opposition.

taking a hard line

Suggests a strict and uncompromising approach.

rejecting negotiation

Emphasizes the refusal to engage in any form of compromise-seeking discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "refusing to compromise" in a sentence?

You can use "refusing to compromise" to describe a person or group that is unwilling to make concessions. For example: "The union is "being intransigent", "not budging" and "refusing to compromise" during negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "refusing to compromise"?

Alternatives include "standing firm", "being unyielding", "remaining inflexible", or "being intransigent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe someone as "refusing to compromise"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply stubbornness, in some contexts, "refusing to compromise" can also suggest integrity and adherence to principles, especially when fundamental values are at stake.

What's the difference between "refusing to compromise" and "negotiating in bad faith"?

"Refusing to compromise" implies an unwillingness to make concessions, while "negotiating in bad faith" suggests deceptive tactics and a lack of genuine intention to reach an agreement. One is about unwillingness, the other about dishonesty.