Intransigent

hardNegative tone

in-TRAN-sih-junt

adjective

Definition

Unwilling or refusing to change one's views or agree; uncompromising

Memory hook

IN-TRANSIG-ENT: will NOT TRANSIT (move) from their position — stubbornly refusing to compromise.

See more GRE words with mnemonics.

Word roots

in— not(Latin)

transigere— to come to an agreement(Latin)

Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.

Examples

“The intransigent negotiators refused all compromise.”

“His intransigent stance prolonged the conflict.”

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

“The ______ negotiators refused all compromise.”

Show answer

intransigent

Synonyms

uncompromisingobstinate unyielding adamant

Antonyms

flexibleaccommodatingamenablecompliant

GRE Tip

Intransigent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "uncompromising" or "obstinate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "flexible".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

Related GRE Words

obdurate

Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action

recalcitrant

Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude

refractory

Stubborn or unmanageable; resistant to treatment

adamant

Refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind; unyielding

mulish

Resembling or characteristic of a mule; stubborn

obstinate