VocabDictionary

obstinacy

/ˈɒb.stɪ.nə.si/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The quality or state of being stubborn; unyielding adherence to an opinion, purpose, or course in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion.

Example Sentences:
  • His sheer obstinacy prevented him from admitting he had made a mistake, even when presented with clear evidence.
  • The negotiations stalled due to the obstinacy of both parties involved.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “obstinacy”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'obstinacia', from 'obstinare' (to persist, stand firm), which is formed from 'ob-' (in the way of) and 'stinare' (to stand, related to 'stare'). It originally implied a stubborn refusal to yield to persuasion or reason.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'ob-stinate' person as someone who is 'ob-structing' progress with their refusal to change their mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About “obstinacy

1. What is the meaning of “obstinacy” in English?

In English, obstinacy (noun) is defined as: “The quality or state of being stubborn; unyielding adherence to an opinion, purpose, or course in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion.”.

2. How do you use “obstinacy” in a sentence?

His sheer obstinacy prevented him from admitting he had made a mistake, even when presented with clear evidence.

3. What are English synonyms of “obstinacy”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “obstinacy”?

Derived from the Latin 'obstinacia', from 'obstinare' (to persist, stand firm), which is formed from 'ob-' (in the way of) and 'stinare' (to stand, related to 'stare'). It originally implied a stubborn refusal to yield to persuasion or reason.