Intransigent: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing someone who is utterly unwilling to change their views or agree. Often used in formal contexts.

• The politician remained intransigent, refusing to negotiate despite the crisis

Used to describe someone who does not want to reach a middle ground or make concessions. It can be both positive, showing strength, or negative, showing unfriendliness.

• His uncompromising stance on ethical issues won him respect but also many enemies

Refers to a person who refuses to change their mind or actions. It can be used in both a mildly negative and neutral context, often in everyday conversations.

• She was too stubborn to admit that she was wrong

Describes someone or something that is very strict and inflexible. It can apply to people, rules, or systems and often has a slightly negative connotation.

• The company’s rigid policies made it difficult for employees to express creativity

Describes someone or something that does not give way under pressure. Often used to show admiration for someone's strength of character but can also have a negative connotation if overused.

• Her unyielding determination helped her overcome many obstacles

This word is used when someone is unyielding and refuses to change their opinions or behavior, even when others think it's unreasonable. It's neutral but can have a slight negative connotation when someone’s rigidity causes issues.

• Despite the team's best efforts, the manager remained intransigent on the decision to cut costs

Describes someone with strict or inflexible views, often used in political contexts. This term is neutral but can suggest a lack of willingness to compromise.

• The hardliner in the party was against any form of negotiation with the opposing side

This term typically describes someone who is fervently loyal to a particular set of beliefs or practices and is resistant to change. It often carries a more neutral tone but can imply stubbornness.

• John is a diehard fan of the old rock band and refuses to accept any new music

This word is used to describe someone who stubbornly refuses to change their opinion or action despite attempts to persuade them to do so. It has a negative connotation, often suggesting unreasonable stubbornness.

• The child was obstinate about not eating his vegetables, no matter what his parents said

This word is used to refer to someone who strongly expresses their beliefs as if they are indisputable facts. It has a negative connotation, implying close-mindedness.

• Her dogmatic attitude in the meetings often stifled open discussion and innovation