Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Obstinate, self-willed: Describes a person, especially a child, who is unreasonably determined to have their own way; stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or behavior despite persuasion or reason.
   • Refractory, recalcitrant: Suggests a defiant and uncooperative attitude, often characterized by a refusal to submit to authority, guidance, or discipline.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đứa trẻ đó rất ngang bướng, không chịu nghe lời ai. (That child is very obstinate and refuses to listen to anyone.)
  • Tính ngang bướng của anh ấy khiến anh gặp nhiều rắc rối. (His self-willed nature gets him into a lot of trouble.)
  • Cô ấy tỏ ra ngang bướng khi bị phê bình. (She acted recalcitrant when she was criticized.)

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a negative connotation and is frequently used to describe difficult, disobedient behavior in children or adolescents. It implies a stubbornness that is seen as irrational or contrary.

Variants and Related Words

• Bướng bỉnh (adj): A very close synonym, also meaning stubborn, obstinate, or headstrong. It is often used interchangeably with .
  • Thằng bé bướng bỉnh không chịu ăn rau. (The stubborn boy refuses to eat his vegetables.)

Synonyms

• Stubborn: Having or showing dogged determination not to change one's attitude or position.
• Obstinate: Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.
• Willful: Deliberate, intentional; (of a person) insisting on having one's own way.
• Recalcitrant: Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline.

Related Idioms

• Cứng đầu cứng cổ: Literally "hard-headed and stiff-necked"; an idiom meaning extremely stubborn and unyielding.
  • Nó cứng đầu cứng cổ, chẳng chịu tiếp thu ý kiến. (He is extremely stubborn and refuses to accept any advice.)

adj

1. obstinate, self-willed