Unbowed: meaning, definitions and examples

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unbowed

[ʌnˈbaʊd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

proud and determined

Not willing to yield or surrender; proud and determined.

Synonyms

resolute, undaunted, unyielding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unbowed	Describes someone who remains strong and unchanged in their beliefs and actions, despite adversity or pressure. She remained unbowed in her convictions, even in the face of fierce criticism
unyielding	Describes a person who refuses to give way under pressure or change their stance or opinion, can have a negative connotation when implying stubbornness. Her unyielding stance on the matter made negotiations very difficult
resolute	Refers to a person showing a firm determination or unwavering focus on achieving a goal. He was resolute in his decision to complete the marathon, no matter how tough it got
undaunted	Indicates someone who is not discouraged by danger or difficulty, showing courage and confidence. Despite the stormy weather, the hikers set out on their journey undaunted

Examples of usage

She stood unbowed in the face of adversity.
He remained unbowed despite the challenges.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

In a manner that shows defiance or determination.

Synonyms

defiantly, determinedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unbowed	This entry seems to be a duplication. However, the same explanation applies: Use 'unbowed' to describe someone who remains strong and unyielding despite challenges or hardships. You need to stay unbowed in the face of adversity. The nation remained unbowed after the natural disaster.
defiantly	This word is best suited for situations where someone is openly resisting or challenging authority, rules, or norms. It has a rebellious and confrontational connotation. She spoke out defiantly against the unjust policies. He stood defiantly in front of the police, refusing to back down.
determinedly	This word is used to describe actions or attitudes that show a strong sense of determination and resolve. It conveys a sense of focus and persistence. She worked determinedly to finish her project before the deadline. He pursued his goals determinedly, never letting setbacks stop him.

Word

Description / Examples

unbowed

This entry seems to be a duplication. However, the same explanation applies: Use 'unbowed' to describe someone who remains strong and unyielding despite challenges or hardships.

You need to stay unbowed in the face of adversity.
The nation remained unbowed after the natural disaster.

defiantly

This word is best suited for situations where someone is openly resisting or challenging authority, rules, or norms. It has a rebellious and confrontational connotation.

She spoke out defiantly against the unjust policies.
He stood defiantly in front of the police, refusing to back down.

determinedly

This word is used to describe actions or attitudes that show a strong sense of determination and resolve. It conveys a sense of focus and persistence.

She worked determinedly to finish her project before the deadline.
He pursued his goals determinedly, never letting setbacks stop him.

Examples of usage

He faced the criticism unbowed.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' so 'unbowed' translates literally to 'not bent or bowed down.'
The word 'bow' comes from Old English 'būgan,' meaning to bend or to curve.
Staying unbowed has roots in literature, often associated with defiance and resilience.

Literature

Famous works often celebrate unbowed characters who triumph over adversity, like in Maya Angelou’s poem 'Still I Rise.'
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s 'The Lord of the Rings,' characters like Aragorn express unbowed courage against overwhelming odds.
Many historical novels feature protagonists who remain unbowed in the face of societal oppression and injustice.

Psychology

Remaining unbowed can be linked to resilience, a key factor in overcoming challenges and stress.
Psychological studies indicate that maintaining an unbowed mindset enhances problem-solving abilities and emotional well-being.
Having a growth mindset contributes to being unbowed, as it encourages viewing setbacks as opportunities for learning.

Pop Culture

Numerous films depict unbowed heroes, such as 'The Pursuit of Happyness,' inspiring viewers with true stories of resilience.
Musicians often write songs about being unbowed, expressing themes of strength and perseverance against struggles.
In sports, many athletes embody the spirit of being unbowed, showcasing determination in the face of defeat.

Translations

Translations of the word "unbowed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não curvado

🇮🇳 अविनत

🇩🇪 ungebeugt

🇮🇩 tidak tunduk

🇺🇦 незламний

🇵🇱 nieugięty

🇯🇵 屈しない

🇫🇷 inflexible

🇪🇸 no doblegado

🇹🇷 bükülmemiş

🇰🇷 굴하지 않는

🇸🇦 غير منحنٍ

🇨🇿 neohnutý

🇸🇰 neohýbaný

🇨🇳 不屈的

🇸🇮 neupognjen

🇮🇸 óbogið

🇰🇿 иілмеген

🇬🇪 მოუქცეველი

🇦🇿 əyilməz

🇲🇽 no doblado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,407, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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