# inflexible

/ˌɪnˈfɫɛksəbəɫ/ (US) · /ɪnflˈɛksɪbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inflexible
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

unable to change or bend easily. You use this to describe someone who sticks to their rules or plans no matter what happens.

For teachers: lacking the ability to change or bend easily; rigid in attitude or behavior. Often used to describe systems, people, or policies that resist adjustment.

## Examples

- The company has an inflexible policy on late arrivals.
- The old building's inflexible structure made it impossible to add a new wing without tearing down the original walls.
- While the initial strategy was sound, the team's inflexible adherence to the original plan prevented them from adapting to the sudden market shift.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.