Recalcitrant: Meaning, Tone and Examples
Recalcitrant (adjective) — Recalcitrant describes stubborn resistance to authority, instructions or control. It is a formal, usually critical word.
Resistance can be quiet
A recalcitrant person may argue openly, but may also quietly refuse to cooperate. The word does not require shouting, confrontation or violence.
Because it expresses disapproval, use it carefully. “She asked a reasonable question” does not establish that she was recalcitrant. Explain the refusal or repeated resistance rather than labelling every disagreement.
Recalcitrant in sentences
- The recalcitrant member repeatedly refused to follow the agreed procedure.
- Despite several reminders, the recalcitrant tenant would not provide the required information.
- The teacher tried to understand why the usually cooperative pupil had become recalcitrant.
- Negotiators struggled to reach an agreement with a recalcitrant faction.
Useful patterns and word forms
Use recalcitrant before a noun or after be, become or remain. Recalcitrance is the related noun: their recalcitrance delayed the meeting.
Short quiz: check your understanding
Try each question before opening its answer.
Question 1
Which behaviour best fits: A) politely asking for clarification or B) repeatedly refusing an agreed instruction?
Show answer 1 and explanation
B. Repeated stubborn resistance fits recalcitrant more clearly.
Question 2
Must a recalcitrant person shout?
Show answer 2 and explanation
No. Quiet refusal can also be recalcitrant.
Question 3
Complete: “Their ___ delayed the work.” Choose recalcitrant or recalcitrance.
Show answer 3 and explanation
Recalcitrance. The noun names the stubborn resistance.
Try it today: Write a sentence that shows the behaviour behind the label.
Dictionary reference: Merriam-Webster: Recalcitrant. Examples and quiz questions are written for English Skill Studio.
FROM READING TO PRACTICE
Practise this topic
Build on this article with a connected lesson. Explore the explanation, try the examples, and check what you remember.
Recalcitrant
Review the adjective and its use in a focused word lesson.
Idiom lessonRock the boat
Compare stubborn resistance with disrupting an established arrangement.
Grammar lessonAdjectives – Types, Order, Comparisons
Practise adjective placement using examples related to recalcitrant.
Categories: Word of the day-2