ENGLISH
REFERENCE

stubbornness

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈstəbɝnəs// UK //stˈʌbənnəs// stub·born·ness

n. the quality of being very determined to do something or to keep doing something, even when people tell you to stop. It can be a good trait if you are fighting for what is right, but it can also be a bad trait if you refuse to listen to others.

n. the quality of being determined to maintain a position or course of action despite opposition or evidence to the contrary. Often carries a negative connotation when describing a refusal to compromise, though it can be viewed as a virtue in the context of persistence.


SIMPLE

His stubbornness made it difficult for the team to reach a decision.

CONTEXTUAL

The negotiator's stubbornness eventually led to a breakdown in talks, as neither side was willing to make a concession.

COMPLEX

While her stubbornness was often seen as a liability in corporate settings, it proved to be a significant asset when she refused to abandon the project despite the initial technical failures.

Synonyms
Origin

From stubborn + -ness.

© 2026 English Reference