Recalcitrant: meaning, definitions and examples

This is used to describe someone who is stubbornly resistant to authority or control. Often used in formal or academic contexts.

• The recalcitrant student refused to follow the classroom rules.
• The manager had to deal with a recalcitrant employee.

Describes someone who is not willing to help or work with others. Generally used in collaborative contexts such as work or family settings.

• The team found him uncooperative during the project.
• Her uncooperative attitude made it difficult to complete the task.

Describes someone who boldly resists or challenges authority or norms. Typically used when describing overt acts of rebellion.

• The child's defiant behavior worried his parents.
• She had a defiant look on her face as she spoke out against the unfair policy.

Refers to someone who is very determined and unwilling to change their opinion or action, even when there are good reasons to do so. Often conveys a sense of irrational stubbornness.

• He remained obstinate despite all the evidence presented to him.
• Her obstinate refusal to apologize widened the rift between them.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe someone who is unwilling to change their mind or course of action. Can be used in both negative and neutral contexts.

• She is too stubborn to admit she was wrong.
• The stubborn mule refused to move.

Used to describe someone who is resistant to authority or control, often in contexts involving rules, regulations, or standard procedures.

• The recalcitrant employee refused to follow the new company protocols
• The teacher had trouble managing the recalcitrant students

Describes someone who actively opposes or fights against authority, control, or tradition. It can be used in both positive and negative senses depending on the context.

• During the revolution, many rebels fought bravely for their freedom
• As a teenager, he was a rebel, always questioning and resisting his parents' rules

Used to refer to someone who causes problems or disruptions, often intentionally. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The troublemaker in the class was always starting fights and causing disruptions
• Every group has at least one troublemaker who enjoys stirring up drama

Refers to an independent person who does not conform to commonly accepted norms or rules, often used in a positive light to describe innovation or individualism.

• In the tech industry, she is known as a maverick for her unique and groundbreaking ideas
• The maverick scientist challenged the established theories with his unconventional research