adjective

intransigent

/ɪnˈtrænsɪdʒənt/ · say it: in·TRAN·suh·juhnt

refusing to change one's views

In From the Opinion Pages

In more detail

1. (adjective) unwilling to change your opinion or position; refusing to compromise or be flexible

2. (adjective) difficult or impossible to deal with or change

Examples

1. The intransigent government refused to negotiate with the rebels.
2. An intransigent problem requires a completely new approach.

How to use intransigent

Intransigent describes a principled or determined unwillingness to compromise, often with a negative connotation suggesting unreasonableness. It is stronger and more formal than stubborn, and typically appears in political, diplomatic, or formal contexts where rigidity is criticized. The word emphasizes an absolute refusal to shift position rather than mere difficulty.

Common phrases

intransigent stance
intransigent attitude
remain intransigent
intransigent opposition
intransigent refusal

Synonyms

uncompromising · inflexible · stubborn · obstinate · unyielding

Opposites

flexible · accommodating · compromising

Word family

intransigence (noun) · intransigently (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse intransigent with intransitive (a grammar term), or overuse it in everyday contexts where simpler words like stubborn or inflexible would be more natural.

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