stubborn

The word “stubborn” means refusing to change one’s mind, position, or behaviour despite pressure or good reason to. In plain terms, set in one’s ways and unwilling to budge, whether about an opinion or a difficult problem.

“Stubborn” is pronounced STUH-buhn (/ˈstʌbɚn/ in IPA).

Here is “stubborn” used in a sentence: “He’s too stubborn to admit he was wrong.”

Words with a similar meaning to “stubborn” include willful, headstrong, wayward, obstinate, obdurate and contrary.

“Stubborn” is an adjective.

The word “stubborn” comes from Old English. From Middle English stiborne, of uncertain origin; possibly related to Old English stybb ("stump"), suggesting something as immovable as a tree stump.

“Stubborn” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

Stubborn usually carries a negative tone, describing someone who refuses to change their mind or behavior even when there's good reason to, often to their own detriment. Determined is more positive, describing focused persistence toward a worthwhile goal, though the two can overlap depending on context.

Yes, stubborn is often used for stains, weeds, weather, or illnesses that are difficult to remove or resolve, as in 'a stubborn stain' or 'a stubborn cough.' In these cases it means resistant to change or treatment rather than describing personality.

Stubborn is generally seen as a mild criticism, implying inflexibility or unreasonable resistance, though it can be used lightly or even affectionately depending on tone and context, such as describing a child's strong will.