Top 40 Slang For Stubbornness – Meaning & Usage

Stubbornness is a trait that many of us encounter in ourselves or others, but how do we express this in a more casual and relatable way? Look no further! Our team has put together a list of the top slang terms for stubbornness that will have you nodding in recognition and maybe even chuckling at how accurately they capture this common behavior. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of stubbornness with a twist, keep reading to discover these amusing and insightful slang expressions.

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1. Bull-headed

This term refers to someone who is extremely stubborn and refuses to change their opinion or behavior, even when presented with evidence or logical arguments.

For example, “Despite all the evidence against him, he remained bull-headed and refused to admit his mistake.”
In a discussion about stubbornness, someone might say, “I’ve never met anyone as bull-headed as my boss.”
Another might comment, “Her bull-headedness is what caused the disagreement in the first place.”

2. Pig-headed

This slang term describes someone who is stubborn to the point of being irrational. It implies that the person is unwilling to listen to reason or consider alternative viewpoints.

For instance, “No matter how much we tried to convince him otherwise, he remained pig-headed.”
In a conversation about difficult people, someone might say, “She can be quite pig-headed when she’s set on something.”
Another might comment, “His pig-headedness often leads to conflicts and misunderstandings.”

3. Hard-headed

When someone is described as hard-headed, it means they are stubborn and resistant to change. They are often set in their ways and unwilling to consider different perspectives or adapt to new situations.

For example, “He’s so hard-headed that it’s nearly impossible to get him to try anything new.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Her hard-headedness often leads to arguments and misunderstandings.”
Another might comment, “Being hard-headed can sometimes hinder personal growth and development.”

4. Mulish

This term describes someone who is stubborn to an extreme degree. It implies that the person is unyielding and unwilling to compromise, often causing difficulties in relationships or situations that require flexibility.

For instance, “His mulish behavior made it difficult to reach a resolution.”
In a conversation about challenging personalities, someone might say, “She can be quite mulish when it comes to accepting feedback.”
Another might comment, “His mulishness often leads to conflicts and strained relationships.”

5. Inflexible

When someone is described as inflexible, it means they are unwilling to change their opinions, beliefs, or plans. They are resistant to adapting to new circumstances or considering alternative viewpoints.

For example, “Her inflexibility made it difficult to find a solution that worked for everyone.”
In a discussion about teamwork, someone might say, “Being inflexible can hinder collaboration and creativity.”
Another might comment, “His inflexibility often leads to missed opportunities and strained relationships.”

6. Unyielding

This term describes someone who is unwilling to change their position or opinion. It implies a strong determination and resistance to compromise.

For example, “Despite the criticism, she remained unyielding in her decision.”
In a debate, one might say, “He presented his argument with an unyielding conviction.”
A parent might describe their child as unyielding, saying, “Once she sets her mind on something, she’s completely unyielding.”

7. Obstinate

Obstinate refers to someone who is stubborn and resistant to change or persuasion. It implies a strong-willed and persistent nature.

For instance, “He’s so obstinate, he never listens to anyone else’s suggestions.”
In a disagreement, one might say, “They had an obstinate argument, neither willing to back down.”
A teacher might describe a difficult student as obstinate, saying, “He’s an obstinate student who refuses to follow instructions.”

8. Stubborn as a mule

This phrase is used to emphasize someone’s stubbornness, comparing them to the notoriously stubborn nature of a mule. It implies a refusal to change or yield.

For example, “He’s as stubborn as a mule, you can never convince him otherwise.”
When discussing a difficult negotiation, one might say, “They were both as stubborn as mules, causing the process to drag on.”
A parent might say about their child, “She’s stubborn as a mule, it’s hard to get her to try new things.”

9. Headstrong

Headstrong describes someone who is determined and stubborn, often to the point of being reckless or impulsive. It implies a refusal to listen to others and a strong belief in one’s own ideas.

For instance, “She’s headstrong and always follows her own path.”
In a discussion about leadership, one might say, “A good leader needs to be confident but not headstrong.”
A friend might describe another friend as headstrong, saying, “He’s a headstrong guy who always goes after what he wants.”

10. Tenacious

Tenacious refers to someone who is persistent and unwavering in their actions or beliefs. It implies a strong determination and refusal to give up.

For example, “She’s a tenacious advocate for social justice.”
In a sports context, one might say, “He’s a tenacious competitor who never gives up.”
A coworker might describe another coworker as tenacious, saying, “She’s a tenacious worker who always gets the job done.”

11. Obstinate as a mule

This phrase compares someone’s stubbornness to that of a mule, emphasizing their refusal to change their opinion or behavior.

For example, “He’s as obstinate as a mule when it comes to trying new foods.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “You’re being as obstinate as a mule, refusing to see my point of view.”
A parent might complain, “My teenager is obstinate as a mule and never listens to me.”

12. Strong-willed

This term describes someone who has a firm determination and is not easily swayed or influenced by others.

For instance, “She’s a strong-willed individual who always fights for what she believes in.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “A strong-willed leader can inspire others to achieve great things.”
A teacher might describe a student as “strong-willed” when they persistently pursue their goals.

13. Single-minded

This term describes someone who is completely focused on one goal or objective, often to the exclusion of everything else.

For example, “He’s single-minded in his pursuit of a career in medicine.”
In a discussion about entrepreneurship, someone might say, “Successful entrepreneurs are often single-minded in their determination to build their business.”
A coach might praise a player for being “single-minded” in their dedication to training and improving their skills.

14. Unbending

This term describes someone who is inflexible and unwilling to change their opinions, beliefs, or behavior.

For instance, “She’s unbending in her principles and never compromises.”
In a negotiation, someone might say, “The other party is unbending in their demands.”
A friend might complain, “He’s so unbending, he never listens to anyone else’s ideas.”

15. Hard-nosed

This term describes someone who is tough, practical, and not easily influenced or swayed by emotions.

For example, “She’s a hard-nosed businesswoman who always gets things done.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “We need a hard-nosed leader who can make tough decisions.”
A coach might describe a player as “hard-nosed” when they are tough and aggressive on the field.

16. Iron-willed

This term describes someone who is strong-willed and unwavering in their decisions or beliefs.

For example, “She was iron-willed in her pursuit of justice.”
A parent might say, “My iron-willed child never gives up on their goals.”
In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “An iron-willed leader inspires their team to achieve greatness.”

17. Rock-headed

This slang term refers to someone who is extremely stubborn and resistant to change or new ideas.

For instance, “He’s so rock-headed, he won’t even consider a different approach.”
A frustrated friend might say, “I can’t believe how rock-headed she is about this issue.”
In a debate, someone might accuse their opponent of being “too rock-headed to see the truth.”

18. Set in one’s ways

This phrase describes someone who is firmly entrenched in their habits, routines, or beliefs and is resistant to any sort of change.

For example, “My grandparents are set in their ways and refuse to try new technology.”
A friend might say, “He’s set in his ways and won’t even consider trying a different cuisine.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “It’s important to challenge yourself and not become too set in your ways.”

19. Firm

This term describes someone who is unwavering in their convictions and refuses to be swayed or influenced by others.

For instance, “She remained firm in her decision despite the criticism.”
A leader might say, “We need to stand firm in our values and not compromise our principles.”
In a negotiation, someone might assert, “I’m firm on my offer and won’t budge.”

20. Determined

This word refers to someone who is highly motivated and unwavering in their pursuit of a goal or objective.

For example, “She was determined to succeed despite the obstacles.”
A coach might say, “The team’s determined attitude led them to victory.”
In a discussion about personal achievements, someone might say, “I’m determined to reach my full potential and fulfill my dreams.”

21. Resolute

This word describes someone who is firmly resolved or determined in their beliefs or actions. It implies a strong sense of purpose and unwavering commitment.

For example, “Despite facing numerous obstacles, she remained resolute in her decision to pursue her dreams.”
In a discussion about perseverance, someone might say, “Being resolute in the face of challenges is key to achieving success.”
A friend might compliment another by saying, “I admire your resolute attitude when it comes to standing up for what you believe in.”

22. Steadfast

This term refers to someone who is firmly loyal, committed, or unwavering in their beliefs or actions. It implies a strong and unchanging dedication.

For instance, “He stood steadfast in his support for the cause, even when others wavered.”
In a conversation about loyalty, one might say, “A steadfast friend is someone you can always rely on.”
A person might describe their own character by saying, “I pride myself on being steadfast in my convictions.”

23. Dogged

This word describes someone who is persistent and determined, often in the face of adversity or obstacles. It implies a tenacious and unwavering attitude.

For example, “Despite numerous setbacks, she remained dogged in her pursuit of her goals.”
In a discussion about never giving up, someone might say, “A dogged spirit is essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success.”
A coach might praise their team by saying, “Our players showed incredible doggedness in their performance on the field.”

24. Bullheaded

This term refers to someone who is stubborn or obstinate, often to the point of being unreasonable or unyielding. It implies a refusal to change one’s opinions or course of action.

For instance, “He can be incredibly bullheaded, always insisting on having his own way.”
In a conversation about dealing with stubborn individuals, someone might say, “Trying to reason with a bullheaded person can be incredibly challenging.”
A friend might playfully criticize another by saying, “You’re so bullheaded, always refusing to admit when you’re wrong.”

25. Pigheaded

This word describes someone who is extremely stubborn or obstinate, often to the point of being pigheaded. It implies a refusal to consider other viewpoints or change one’s mind.

For example, “She is known for her pigheadedness, never willing to listen to others’ opinions.”
In a discussion about dealing with difficult people, someone might say, “A pigheaded person can be incredibly frustrating to interact with.”
A family member might affectionately tease another by saying, “You’re so pigheaded, always insisting on having the last word.”

26. Rigid

This term refers to someone who is unwilling to change their opinions or behaviors. A person who is rigid is often resistant to new ideas or suggestions.

For example, if someone refuses to try a new type of food, you might say, “He’s so rigid when it comes to his diet.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might criticize a politician for being rigid in their stance on a certain issue.
A parent might say, “My teenager is so rigid when it comes to following rules.”

27. Uncompromising

This word describes someone who refuses to make concessions or reach a middle ground. An uncompromising person is often firm in their beliefs and unwilling to negotiate.

For instance, in a business negotiation, someone might be described as uncompromising if they refuse to budge on their demands.
In a debate, one debater might accuse the other of being uncompromising and unwilling to consider alternative viewpoints.
A friend might say, “She’s so uncompromising, it’s hard to find a movie we both want to watch.”

28. Stiff-necked

This slang term describes someone who is stubborn and resistant to change. A stiff-necked person is often set in their ways and refuses to listen to others’ opinions or suggestions.

For example, if someone refuses to try a new technology, you might say, “He’s so stiff-necked when it comes to embracing new gadgets.”
In a group project, a team member might complain, “He’s so stiff-necked, he won’t even consider our ideas.”
A parent might say, “My child is so stiff-necked, it’s hard to get them to try new activities.”

29. Unrelenting

This word describes someone who is persistent and determined. An unrelenting person does not give up easily and continues to pursue their goals or opinions despite obstacles or opposition.

For instance, in a sports competition, a player might be described as unrelenting if they continue to give their best effort even when their team is losing.
In a political campaign, a candidate might be praised for their unrelenting dedication to their platform.
A friend might say, “She’s so unrelenting, she never gives up on her dreams.”

30. Implacable

This term describes someone who is impossible to appease or satisfy. An implacable person is often unyielding in their demands or expectations.

For example, if someone is always unhappy with their meal at a restaurant, you might say, “He’s so implacable when it comes to food.”
In a relationship, one partner might describe the other as implacable if they are constantly dissatisfied and refuse to compromise.
A coworker might complain, “She’s so implacable, nothing we do seems to make her happy.”

31. Unshakeable

This term describes someone who cannot be shaken or influenced in their beliefs or opinions. They remain steadfast and resolute in their position.

For example, “Despite facing numerous obstacles, she remained unshakeable in her pursuit of her dreams.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “His unshakeable belief in his political ideology is admirable.”
A person might describe their own determination by saying, “I have an unshakeable commitment to achieving my goals.”

32. Rock-ribbed

This phrase refers to someone who is extremely stubborn and unyielding, similar to the hard, unyielding nature of rock. They refuse to budge or compromise.

For instance, “He is known for his rock-ribbed stance on gun control.”
In a debate, one might say, “Her rock-ribbed opinions on the matter make it difficult to find common ground.”
A person might describe their own stubbornness by saying, “I come from a family of rock-ribbed individuals who never back down from a challenge.”

33. Unmovable

This term describes someone who cannot be moved or persuaded to change their position. They are rigid and unyielding in their beliefs or opinions.

For example, “He is unmovable in his decision to leave the company.”
In a discussion about a contentious issue, someone might say, “Her unmovable stance on the matter has caused tension within the group.”
A person might describe their own stubbornness by saying, “I have always been unmovable when it comes to my principles.”

34. Fixed

This word refers to someone who has a fixed mindset and is resistant to change. They are set in their ways and refuse to consider alternative perspectives.

For instance, “Despite new evidence, she remains fixed in her belief.”
In a conversation about personal growth, one might say, “Having a fixed mindset can hinder your ability to adapt and learn.”
A person might describe their own stubbornness by saying, “I admit that I have a tendency to be fixed in my opinions.”

35. Unswerving

This term describes someone who remains steadfast and resolute in their beliefs or goals. They do not deviate or waver from their chosen path.

For example, “His unswerving dedication to his craft has led to great success.”
In a discussion about loyalty, one might say, “She is known for her unswerving loyalty to her friends.”
A person might describe their own determination by saying, “I have an unswerving commitment to always doing my best.”

36. Unbudgeable

This term describes someone who is extremely resistant to changing their opinion or stance on something. They refuse to budge or compromise.

For example, “No matter how much we tried to convince him, he remained unbudgeable in his decision.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “She is known for her unbudgeable views on immigration.”
A person might describe their boss as “unbudgeable” when it comes to implementing new ideas.

37. Uncooperative

This term refers to someone who refuses to cooperate or collaborate. They are resistant to working with others or following instructions.

For instance, “The team had trouble completing the project because one member was uncooperative.”
In a workplace setting, a supervisor might say, “She is uncooperative and always resists taking on additional tasks.”
A frustrated parent might say, “My teenager is extremely uncooperative and refuses to follow any rules.”

38. Unmanageable

This term describes something or someone that is hard to control or handle. It implies a lack of manageability or control.

For example, “The class became unmanageable when the teacher left the room.”
In a discussion about a challenging project, someone might say, “The workload is unmanageable without additional resources.”
A parent might describe their toddler as “unmanageable” during a tantrum.

39. Unaccommodating

This term describes someone who is unwilling to adapt or make allowances for others. They are inflexible and not accommodating.

For instance, “The hotel staff was unaccommodating and refused to provide any extra pillows.”
In a discussion about a difficult coworker, someone might say, “He is unaccommodating and never considers others’ needs.”
A person might describe a strict dress code policy as “unaccommodating” to different cultural practices.

40. Unflinching

This term describes someone who remains steadfast and resolute in the face of danger or difficulty. They do not flinch or show fear.

For example, “He faced the criticism with unflinching resolve.”
In a discussion about a brave act, someone might say, “She showed unflinching courage in the face of adversity.”
A person might describe a leader as “unflinching” in their pursuit of justice.