# uncompromising

/ənˈkɑmpɹəmaɪzɪŋ/ (US) · /ʌnkˈɒmpɹəmˌaɪzɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/uncompromising
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

unwilling to change your ideas or behavior, even if people disagree with you. It describes someone who stays very firm about what they believe is right.

For teachers: unwilling to grant concessions or reach a middle ground; showing an inflexible adherence to a standard or principle. Often carries a positive connotation of integrity or a negative one of stubbornness depending on context.

## Examples

- She is uncompromising when it comes to the quality of her work.
- The director's uncompromising vision for the film meant he refused to cut any scenes for the studio.
- His uncompromising stance on environmental regulations earned him respect from activists but made him a difficult partner for industrial leaders seeking a more gradual transition.

## Usage notes

- Can be used both attributively before a noun and predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'remain', or 'seem'.

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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.