What is obstinate? Pronunciation and usage in English

obstinate means . Learn how to pronounce and use obstinate through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of obstinate

obstinateadjective

/ˈɒbstɪnət//ˈɑːbstɪnət/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "obstinate." It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and a phonetic guide:

1. The Sounds:

  • ob-: Pronounced like "ob" in "object" - a short, unstressed "uh" sound.
  • sta-: This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "stah" with a slightly drawn-out “ah” sound. Think of it as the "a" in "father."
  • -tine: This ends with a "tin" sound, similar to the "tin" in "tin can."

2. Putting it Together (Phonetic Guide):

Here's a simplified phonetic transcription that will help:

/ˈɒbstɪneɪt/

Let's break that down:

  • ˈɒbst: Stress is on this syllable. "Ob" (as in object) + "stah" (as in father)
  • ɪneɪt: "in" (as in "in") + "ay" (as in "say") + “t” (a hard “t” sound)

3. How to Say it Aloud (Step-by-Step):

  1. Start with "ob": Say "ob" like in "object."
  2. Add "stah": Say "stah" with a longer, drawn-out "ah" sound.
  3. Add "tin": Finish with a crisp “t” sound.

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "ob-stain-ate." The "ain" sound isn't there.
  • The “a” in "sta-" is crucial. It’s a full, open “ah” sound, not a short “a” like in “cat.”
  • Stress: Make sure you emphasize the first syllable ("ob").

Resources for Hearing It:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Focus on a specific part of the word (like the “sta-” part)?

Usage and examples with the word obstinate in English

Let's break down how to use the word "obstinate" in English. It's a powerful word with a specific meaning!

1. Meaning:

"Obstinate" means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action. It describes someone who is headstrong, unyielding, and resistant to persuasion. It’s not just being firm; it’s being stubbornly firm.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Adjective: This is the most common way you'll use it. It describes a person.
  • Noun: Less frequently, it can refer to the quality of being obstinate.

3. How to Use it as an Adjective (Describing a Person):

Here are some examples showing how to use "obstinate" as an adjective:

  • "He was an obstinate man, refusing to listen to any advice." (Describes a person's character.)
  • "Her obstinate attitude made negotiations difficult." (Describes a behavior.)
  • "Despite repeated attempts to reason with him, the patient remained obstinate." (Describes a state of being.)
  • “The teenager was being obstinate and wouldn’t tidy her room.” (Describing a specific action)

4. Synonyms:

Here are some words that have similar meanings to “obstinate” (useful to have in your vocabulary):

  • Stubborn
  • Headstrong
  • Unyielding
  • Firm (sometimes, but not always – “firm” can also be positive)
  • Intransigent
  • Defiant

5. Phrases with “Obstinate”:

  • "To be obstinate" – To be stubbornly resistant to advice or persuasion. (e.g., "He refused to be obstinate and agreed to apologize.")
  • "An obstinate refusal" – A very firm and unyielding refusal. (e.g., “There was an obstinate refusal to admit any fault.”)

6. Important Nuances & When Not to Use It:

  • It's often negative: "Obstinate" is generally considered a negative characteristic. It suggests inflexibility and a lack of willingness to compromise.
  • Don't overuse it: It's a strong word. It's best used when describing a truly stubborn and unyielding person. Sometimes “firm” or “determined” is a better fit.

Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Usages:

  • Positive (Rare): “Although he was a bit obstinate, his determination led him to success.” (Here, it’s used with caution, acknowledging the negative aspect while highlighting a positive outcome.)
  • Negative: “Her obstinate belief in her plan ignored all the warning signs.”
  • Neutral (Describing a behavior): “The team displayed an obstinate defense, refusing to concede ground.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a story, an email, a description of a character?)
  • Do you have a specific sentence in mind where you’re considering using “obstinate”?

Synonyms for the word obstinate

Practice with vocabulary obstinate

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, the CEO remained ________ in his belief that the outdated marketing strategy would eventually yield results.
  2. Her ________ dedication to her studies earned her the top scholarship, showcasing her unwavering commitment to academic excellence.
  3. The highly ________ debate over the new budget allocation lasted for hours, with neither side willing to back down easily.
  4. The persistent data encryption error proved to be an ________ challenge for the IT team, requiring several late nights to finally overcome.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes a person who stubbornly refuses to alter their opinion, even when presented with logical arguments? A) Adaptable B) Flexible C) Obstinate D) Compliant

  2. In a professional context, which words could describe a team member who is uncooperative and resistant to new ideas? (Select all that apply) A) Amenable B) Receptive C) Obstinate D) Unyielding

  3. An ancient political dispute that has proven difficult to resolve despite numerous attempts at mediation could be described as: A) Transient B) Resolved C) Obstinate D) Malleable

  4. Which word best describes someone who shows great determination and persistence in achieving a goal, often against odds? A) Fickle B) Wavering C) Resolute D) Indecisive

  5. The company's rules on data privacy are extremely ________ and must be followed without exception by all employees. A) Flexible B) Lenient C) Stringent D) Permissive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Despite repeated attempts to persuade him, John refused to reconsider his decision to invest in the risky startup. Rewrite using "obstinate" or a related word form:

  2. Original: The outdated software system presented a significant and intractable problem for the developers. Rewrite using "obstinate" or a related word form:

  3. Original: The committee was very firm in its decision to reject the proposal due to budgetary constraints. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do NOT use "obstinate"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. obstinate
  2. resolute
  3. contentious
  4. obstinate

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. C) Obstinate
  2. C) Obstinate, D) Unyielding
  3. C) Obstinate
  4. C) Resolute
  5. C) Stringent

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. John obstinately refused to reconsider his decision to invest in the risky startup, despite repeated attempts to persuade him.
  2. The outdated software system presented an obstinate problem for the developers.
  3. The committee was adamant in its decision to reject the proposal due to budgetary constraints.

Comment ()