stiff-necked
/'stif'nekt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Haughtily stubborn; obstinate and arrogant: Describes a person who is rigidly unyielding in their opinions, attitudes, or behavior, often with an air of pride or superiority. It implies a refusal to change, compromise, or listen to others due to a sense of self-importance.
Usage
The term "stiff-necked" is used to characterize a person's disposition. It is a descriptive adjective, often carrying a negative connotation of unreasonable stubbornness combined with pride. It is typically used in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The manager was too stiff-necked to admit that the new strategy was flawed.
- Her stiff-necked refusal to consider any alternative proposals stalled the negotiations.
- He is a kind man, but can be rather stiff-necked about traditional customs.
Advanced Usage
- Biblical/Historical Connotation: The term has strong roots in biblical language, often used to describe people who are obstinate in their disobedience to God.
- The prophets often rebuked the stiff-necked people of Israel.
Variants and Related Words
- Stiff-neckedness (noun): The quality of being stiff-necked.
- His stiff-neckedness was the main obstacle to reaching a consensus.
Synonyms
- Obstinate: Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.
- Intransigent: Unwilling or refusing to change one's views or to agree about something.
- Adamant: Refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind.
- Haughty: Arrogantly superior and disdainful.
Antonyms
- Flexible: Willing to change or compromise.
- Amenable: Open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded or controlled.
- Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules.
Idioms and Phrases
- To be stiff-necked: This is the standard idiomatic form itself, meaning to be obstinate and proud.
- You'll never get him to apologize; he's simply too stiff-necked.
Adjective
- haughtily stubborn
- a stiff-necked old Boston brahmin