stubborn determination

USAGE SUMMARY

'stubborn determination' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it when referring to someone who is exhibiting a particularly unwavering and relentless attitude towards a certain task or goal. For example, "He had a stubborn determination to reach his goal, no matter the obstacles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Throughout the capital, stubborn determination is fueling the fight for survival.

The New York Times

I left with a stubborn determination to pursue what I wanted to do.

The Economist

It's probably only the stubborn determination to be on top that kept Lazar going during her illness.

The New Yorker

What's more, the Mexicans' storytelling, satirical barbs and stubborn determination are rooted in their home country, Mr Luna reckons.

The Economist

It was one linchpin of a concert that seesawed between facing mortality — full of songs about death — and a stubborn determination to live fully.

The New York Times - Arts

None of it would work if Ms. Zellweger's Betty weren't such a perfectly blended mixture of sweetness, innocence and stubborn determination tinged with a streak of petulance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

He is as stubborn in his determination to get the movie made as Travers is in her resolve to stop her novel being bowdlerized on screen.

Independent

Those of us who remember where we were when we first heard the album can indulge our nostalgia while taking in the evidence of Mr. Springsteen's stubborn yet calm determination to find exactly the sound he was seeking.

The New York Times - Arts

Allen, likely both stubborn in his determination, and envious of Arnold, persisted.

Wikipedia

Publishers Weekly calls the book a "slightly offbeat firsthand account of scientific determination and stubborn intellect" that "delivers a fascinating journey of discovery peppered with humor".

The New York Times

There is a feeling that Greece – thanks to a flamboyant prime minister and a stubborn attitude, plus the determination of Germany and others to "save" the euro at almost any price – has been treated as a special case.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's ability to overcome obstacles, use "stubborn determination" to highlight their unwavering resolve and refusal to give up.

Common error

While "stubborn determination" implies a positive trait of perseverance, be sure that the "stubborn" aspect doesn't overshadow the need for adaptability. Sometimes, a rigid approach can hinder progress, so consider if a more flexible strategy might be beneficial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stubborn determination" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It combines an adjective ("stubborn") with a noun ("determination") to describe a particular quality or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stubborn determination" is a noun phrase widely used to describe unwavering resolve and persistence. Ludwig AI affirms its proper usage in written English. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, with a neutral register appropriate for general writing. The phrase is generally used to emphasize someone's ability to overcome obstacles. While commonly positive, it is important to ensure that "stubbornness" doesn't overshadow the need for flexibility and adaptability. Alternative phrases like "unyielding resolve" and "tenacious persistence" can provide similar nuances depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unyielding resolve

Focuses more on the firmness and inflexibility of the decision.

tenacious persistence

Highlights the act of continuous effort despite difficulties.

unwavering commitment

Emphasizes dedication and loyalty to a cause or goal.

dogged perseverance

Suggests a relentless and unwavering pursuit, often against significant obstacles.

firm resolve

Highlights the strength and stability of the decision.

iron will

Implies an exceptional strength of character and determination.

resolute spirit

Focuses on the inner strength and unwavering nature of the person.

determined mindset

Emphasizes the mental attitude of being set on achieving a goal.

persistent drive

Highlights the internal motivation and energy behind the effort.

inflexible purpose

Focuses on the unwavering nature of the intended aim or goal.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "stubborn determination" in a sentence?

Use "stubborn determination" to describe someone who persists relentlessly despite challenges. For example, "Despite numerous setbacks, her "stubborn determination" led her to achieve her goals."

What's a less common synonym for "stubborn determination"?

A less common synonym is "dogged perseverance", which emphasizes the relentless and unwavering pursuit of a goal, often against significant obstacles.

Is "stubborn determination" always a positive trait?

While generally positive, "stubborn determination" can be negative if it leads to inflexibility. It's important to consider whether the persistence is productive or hindering progress.

What's the difference between "stubborn determination" and simply being stubborn?

"Stubborn determination" implies a positive drive toward a goal, whereas simply being "stubborn" can suggest an unreasonable refusal to change or compromise, even when it's detrimental.