Intransigent Meaning and Definition
Intransigent
Pronunciation
/ɪnˈtrænsɪdʒnt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A person who refuses to compromise or change their opinion, even in the face of overwhelming evidence or persuasive arguments.
Examples
- The politician was criticized for being intransigent on the issue of tax reform.
- The couple’s intransigent refusal to compromise on their moving plans led to a stalemate.
Synonyms
- Unyielding
- obicinate
Antonyms
- Flexible
- Forgiving
Etymology
The word intransigent comes from the Latin words “in,” meaning “unchangeable,” and “transigere,” meaning “to compromise.” It has its roots in the 17th century.
Usage Notes
Intransigent is often used to describe individuals who refuse to listen to opposing views or compromise on issues. It can also be used to describe situations where two parties are unable to come to an agreement due to their intransigence.
Cultural References
Intransigent has been used in various works of literature and media to describe characters who refuse to compromise or change their opinions. For example, William Wordsworth’s poem “The Prelude” features a character who is described as “intransigent” in his refusal to compromise on his beliefs.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “To be intransigent” means to refuse to compromise or change one’s opinion.
- “Intransigence” refers to the quality of being unwilling to compromise or change one’s opinion.
Related Words or Phrases
- Mule
- Stubborn
- Refusal
Collocations
- “Intransigent stance”
- “Intransigent attitude”
- “Intransigent opposition”
Frequency of Use
Intransigent is a relatively rare word, but it is gaining popularity as a description of individuals and situations that refuse to compromise or change their opinions.
Common Misspellings
- Infrainigient
- Intransignet