headstrong
/'hedstrɔɳ/
Definition
Adjective: 1. Stubbornly determined to have one's own way; obstinate and willful: Describes a person who is very difficult to control or manage because they insist on doing what they want, often ignoring advice, rules, or authority. 2. Characterized by unyielding self-will: Implies a strong, often reckless, determination to follow one's own desires or opinions.
Usage
The adjective "headstrong" is used to describe a person, especially a young person, or their behavior, character, or decisions. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of discipline, wisdom, or regard for consequences. It is typically used in more formal or literary contexts than synonyms like "stubborn."
Examples
- Describing a person:
- The headstrong teenager refused to listen to his parents' warnings.
- She was too headstrong to accept help from anyone.
- Describing behavior or decisions:
- His headstrong pursuit of the deal led to significant financial losses.
- The general's headstrong charge into the valley was a tactical mistake.
Advanced Usage
- "Headstrong" vs. "Strong-willed": While both imply determination, "strong-willed" can be neutral or positive, suggesting admirable resolve. "Headstrong" is almost always negative, implying foolish or reckless obstinacy.
- She is strong-willed and principled. (Positive/Neutral)
- He is headstrong and refuses to consider other viewpoints. (Negative)
Variants and Related Words
- Headstrongness (noun, rare): The quality of being headstrong.
- His downfall was caused by his sheer headstrongness.
- Strong-headed (adjective): A less common synonym with a very similar meaning to "headstrong."
Synonyms
- Obstinate: Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.
- Willful: Deliberate and obstinate, often implying intent.
- Pigheaded: Informal and derogatory, implying stupidity along with stubbornness.
- Intractable: Hard to control or manage; unruly.
- Recalcitrant: Resisting authority or control; disobedient.
Antonyms
- Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules.
- Docile: Ready to accept control or instruction; submissive.
- Amenable: Open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded.
- Tractable: Easy to control or influence.
Idioms and Phrases
- To be as headstrong as a mule: An idiom emphasizing extreme stubbornness.
- You can't reason with him; he's as headstrong as a mule.
- A headstrong course of action: A phrase describing a plan pursued with reckless determination.
- The company abandoned its headstrong course of action after the market reacted poorly.
Adjective
-
habitually disposed to disobedience and opposition
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