Obdurate
When evidence bounces off someone, you are not debating anymore, you are hitting this wall with a softer word than stubborn.
Learn This WordMeaning
Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action; hardened in attitude.
Memory trick
OB-DURATE: against (ob) becoming durable-hard; an obdurate person is hard to move.
Examples
Despite clear evidence, he remained obdurate and refused to revise the forecast.
The committee was obdurate about the deadline extension.
Her obdurate stance made mediation difficult.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin obdurare "to harden," from ob- "against" + durare "to harden."
Usage Notes
Stronger and more formal than “stubborn,” often implying emotional hardness.
Real-life contexts
Use in negotiations: "We need a new approach if stakeholders stay obdurate."
Use in writing: "The obdurate policy blocked practical reform."
Use carefully: "Obdurate" can sound harsh and personal.
Common Mistakes
Obdurate describes persistent resistance, not simple confidence.
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Start LearningQuick Facts
Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
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