Obstinately: meaning, definitions and examples

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obstinately

 

[ ˈɒbstɪnətli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a determined or stubborn manner

Obstinately means in a manner that shows a refusal to change one's opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so. It implies a strong-willed and inflexible attitude towards a particular situation or belief.

Synonyms

adamantly, resolutely, stubbornly, unyieldingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obstinately

Used to describe someone who refuses to change their opinion or action despite attempts to persuade them. Often has a negative connotation.

  • He obstinately refused to listen to any advice given to him.
  • The child obstinately held onto his toy, despite his mother's instructions.
stubbornly

Describes someone who is unwilling to change their mind or actions. Typically carries a negative tone.

  • He stubbornly refused to admit that he was wrong.
  • She stubbornly stuck to her plan, even though it was clearly failing.
adamantly

Shows firm and definite determination, usually in a positive sense when someone is standing by their principles.

  • She adamantly opposed the new policy, citing unfair treatment.
  • He was adamantly against lying, no matter the situation.
resolutely

Implies determined and unwavering commitment, often with a sense of moral or purposeful resolve.

  • She resolutely stood up for what she believed in, even when it was difficult.
  • They resolutely continued their mission despite the challenges.
unyieldingly

Denotes a person or their actions that do not bend or compromise, showing firmness that can be both positive or negative.

  • He unyieldingly pursued his goal, undeterred by setbacks.
  • The administration unyieldingly enforced the new regulations, leaving no room for flexibility.

Examples of usage

  • She stubbornly and obstinately refused to admit she was wrong.
  • The child clung obstinately to his favorite toy, refusing to share it with anyone.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a persistent or unyielding manner

Obstinately can also mean in a persistent or unyielding manner, suggesting a firm and unwavering commitment to a task or goal. It conveys a sense of perseverance and determination despite obstacles or challenges.

Synonyms

doggedly, persistently, steadfastly, tenaciously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
obstinately

Used when someone is stubborn and unwilling to change their opinion or action, often to the point of being unreasonable.

  • She obstinately refused to apologize, even though she knew she was wrong.
doggedly

Applied when someone is showing strong determination and effort, especially in the face of difficulties. It has a slightly negative connotation.

  • He doggedly pursued his studies, despite numerous setbacks.

Examples of usage

  • She continued obstinately with her research, undeterred by setbacks.
  • The old tree stood obstinately against the strong winds, refusing to be uprooted.

Translations

Translations of the word "obstinately" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teimosamente

🇮🇳 जिद्दी तरीके से

🇩🇪 hartnäckig

🇮🇩 dengan keras kepala

🇺🇦 уперто

🇵🇱 uparcie

🇯🇵 頑固に (がんこに)

🇫🇷 obstinément

🇪🇸 obstinadamente

🇹🇷 inatla

🇰🇷 완고하게

🇸🇦 بعناد

🇨🇿 umíněně

🇸🇰 zaťato

🇨🇳 固执地 (gùzhí de)

🇸🇮 trmasto

🇮🇸 þrjóskulega

🇰🇿 қайсарлықпен

🇬🇪 ჯიუტად (jiutad)

🇦🇿 inadkarlıqla

🇲🇽 obstinadamente

Etymology

The word 'obstinately' has its origins in the Latin word 'obstinatus', which means 'resolved'. Over time, it evolved to include the connotation of stubbornness or inflexibility. The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a determined or unyielding attitude. Throughout history, individuals who acted obstinately were often seen as either admirable for their unwavering commitment or criticized for their stubbornness.

See also: obstinacy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,373, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.