What is stubborn? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of stubborn

stubbornadjective

/ˈstʌbən/
Definition & pronunciation of stubborn

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "stubborn" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

ˈstʌb.ərn

2. Breakdown & Explanation:

  • ˈstʌb: This part sounds like "stub."

    • ˈ (stress mark): This indicates that the first syllable is emphasized.
    • st: Pronounced like the "st" in "stop."
    • ʌ (a short "uh" sound): This is a very short, relaxed "uh" sound, like in the word "but." It's not a long, drawn-out "uh" like in "about."
    • b: Pronounced like the "b" in "boy."

  • ərn: This part sounds like "urn."

    • ər: This is the "er" sound, like in "her" or "stir." It's a schwa sound (a very weak, unstressed vowel).
    • n: Pronounced like the "n" in "no."

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

  1. Start with the "stub" sound: Say "stub" with a quick, relaxed "uh" sound (like in "but").
  2. Add the "urn" sound: Now add the "er" sound (like in "her") at the end.
  3. Connect the syllables: Blend the two parts together smoothly.

4. Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "uh" in "stub": It’s a very short sound.
  • The "ər" sound is crucial: Make sure you pronounce the “er” at the end correctly. It’s key to the word's sound.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear how it's pronounced. You can find many examples on:
    • Google Translate: Type "stubborn" and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/stubborn/ - This site has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce stubborn"

To summarize, it’s roughly “stub-urn.” Focus on a short “uh” sound for the first syllable and a smooth “er” sound at the end.

Would you like me to:

  • Say it aloud?
  • Give you some more example words that use similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word stubborn in English

Let's break down how to use the word "stubborn" in English. It’s a really common word, but it can be tricky to use precisely.

1. Core Meaning:

  • Stubborn essentially means determined to do something despite opposition or persuasion. It describes someone who is resistant to change, advice, or new ideas. They’re often difficult to convince otherwise.

2. How to Use It – Different Ways:

  • Describing a Person's Personality: This is the most frequent use.

    • "He’s incredibly stubborn; he refuses to admit he was wrong." (Focus on a persistent refusal to change opinion)
    • "She’s a remarkably stubborn woman – once she’s made up her mind, it’s almost impossible to sway her." (Highlights difficulty in changing their mind)
    • "Don't be so stubborn! Just try it once." (Expressing disagreement with their resistance)

  • Describing a Behavior: You can use it to describe a specific action or course of behavior.

    • "He was stubbornly sticking to his plan, even when everyone else disagreed." (Focus on the persistent action itself)
    • "The horse was stubborn and wouldn't move forward." (Describing animal behavior)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Firm
  • Headstrong
  • Obstinate
  • Intransigent
  • Willful
  • Resistant

4. Negative Connotations:

  • "Stubborn" often has a slightly negative connotation. It suggests an unwillingness to compromise or listen to others, sometimes implying they're being difficult or unreasonable. However, it’s not always negative. Resolve and determination can be positive qualities, depending on the situation.

5. Positive Connotations (Sometimes):

  • In some contexts, "stubborn" can be positive, signifying strength of will or unwavering belief in something.
    • "It takes a stubborn spirit to survive in that environment." (Here, it describes resilience)

6. Phrases Using "Stubborn":

  • Stubborn as a mule: (A common idiom – ridiculously stubborn!)
  • He’s being stubbornly resistant to change.
  • She has a stubborn streak. (Meaning she has a tendency to be stubborn)

7. Example Sentences (Combining the above):

  • "Despite all the evidence, he remained stubbornly convinced that he was right."
  • “Don’t be so stubborn and just consider my suggestion.”
  • “Her stubborn refusal to apologize frustrated everyone involved.”

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

  • What are you trying to use "stubborn" in a sentence about? (e.g., describing a person, a situation, an animal?)

Synonyms for the word stubborn

Practice with vocabulary stubborn

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, the seasoned politician remained __________ in his refusal to concede defeat.
  2. The management team's __________ approach to problem-solving often resulted in innovative solutions, even when faced with significant obstacles.
  3. The company's antiquated IT system has proven remarkably __________ to modernization efforts, causing frequent operational delays.
  4. To ensure long-term success in the volatile market, businesses must be __________ and willing to adjust their strategies quickly.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which words describe someone who refuses to change their opinion or course of action, even when faced with strong arguments or difficulties? a) flexible b) obstinate c) compliant d) unwavering e) stubborn

  2. Which words describe the quality of maintaining effort and determination over a long period, especially in the face of challenges? a) laziness b) perseverance c) apathy d) diligence e) flippancy

  3. What adjective could be used to describe a deeply ingrained habit that is extremely difficult to break, or a person who is unwilling to yield? a) tractable b) intractable c) amenable d) stubborn e) pliable

  4. If a negotiation team is described as being open to new ideas and willing to compromise, they are likely: a) rigid b) adaptable c) dogmatic d) amenable e) uncompromising

  5. Which terms characterize a person who is unyielding and often unreasonably firm in their views, even to their own detriment? a) conciliatory b) pliant c) resolute d) pig-headed e) stubborn

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Despite repeated attempts to persuade her, she did not alter her stance on the new company policy. (Rewrite using "stubborn" or a related word form.)
  2. The old software system often resisted attempts to update it quickly, causing significant operational delays. (Rewrite using "stubborn" or a related word form.)
  3. The CEO was very firm in his decision not to proceed with the acquisition, stating his reasons clearly and definitively. (Rewrite without using "stubborn" or any of its forms, using a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. stubborn
  2. resolute
  3. stubborn
  4. adaptable

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) obstinate, d) unwavering, e) stubborn
  2. b) perseverance, d) diligence
  3. b) intractable, d) stubborn
  4. b) adaptable, d) amenable
  5. c) resolute, d) pig-headed, e) stubborn

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She remained stubborn in her stance on the new company policy, despite repeated attempts to persuade her.
  2. The old software system was stubbornly resistant to quick updates, causing significant operational delays.
  3. The CEO was adamant in his decision not to proceed with the acquisition, stating his reasons clearly and definitively.

Comment ()