English vocabulary · C2
Intransigent
/ɪnˈtræn.sə.dʒənt/ · adj., n.
An intransigent person will not change their mind or meet you halfway. A fair offer still fails to make them change even one small thing.
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Example sentences
- Our intransigent host won't share.
- She waved off the intransigent chef.
Word origin and roots
from French
- intransigeant — won't bend (from French)
Synonyms and nuances
- STUBBORN — refuses to change easily (Hard to Change)
- FIRM — strong in a decision (Steady Choice)
- RIGID — will not change easily (No Flexibility)
Similar words
- stubborn
- firm
- rigid
- unyielding
- inflexible
Lesson notes
An intransigent person will not change their mind or meet you halfway. A fair offer still fails to make them change even one small thing.
Related: stubborn, firm, rigid. Use intransigent when talks hit a wall.
Our intransigent host won't share. She waved off the intransigent chef.
From French. An-trahn-zee-zhahn- means won't bend. Friends who won't bend stay intransigent over the last loaf.