obstinate
Stubbornly refusing to change opinion or course of action
Examples
In a meeting
“His obstinate refusal to consider alternative approaches delayed the project.”
Over coffee
“She's being obstinate about not seeing a doctor, even though she's been sick for weeks.”
Why this word
stubborn
Obstinate emphasizes unreasonable persistence despite persuasion, while stubborn is determined resistance generally
persistent
Obstinate implies clinging to opinion unreasonably, while persistent means continuing effort, often positively
determined
Obstinate suggests unreasonable or excessive firmness, while determined is positive resolution
Usage tip
Use for unreasonable stubbornness, not principled firmness—has a negative connotation
Etymology
Latin — from 'obstinatus' (resolved), from 'obstinare' (to persist), from 'ob-' (against) + 'stare' (to stand)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
contradict
To state the opposite or deny the truth of something
pushback
Resistance or objection to an idea or plan
appease
To pacify or satisfy someone by giving in to their demands
impasse
A deadlock where no progress is possible
conciliatory
Intended to gain goodwill or reduce hostility
defuse
To reduce the danger or tension in a situation