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Reading notes: Intransigent
Intransigent (adjective): Unwilling to compromise or change an opinion or position.
Use it accurately
Use it for a firm refusal to negotiate, often with a critical tone. A person may be determined without being intransigent: determination alone does not rule out compromise.
Original example sentences
The two sides remained intransigent, so the talks ended without agreement.
Her intransigent refusal to consider another route delayed the trip.
Check your understanding
A negotiator listens and accepts a reasonable compromise. Is “intransigent” a good description?
Answer: No. Willingness to compromise is the opposite of the quality described here.
Dictionary reference: Intransigent
Describe a refusal to compromise
Two teams propose a revised timetable. One leader refuses to discuss any change, even though several workable options are available.
Think it through: Complete: “The leader remained ___ during the discussion.” Why is the word more precise than “confident”?
Check the explanation
Intransigent. The situation involves refusing compromise. Confidence concerns belief in yourself or your judgment and does not by itself imply refusing to listen.
Your turn: Retell the situation in one sentence. Then change it so the leader is willing to negotiate.
Study intransigent in the written lesson: meaning and further examples.
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