WordGarden.ioinflexible
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnflˈɛksɪbəl/
US
- /ˌɪnˈflɛksəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
unwilling to change opinions, plans, or behavior
not easily bent or physically flexible
not allowing adjustment, exception, or variation
Beyond the definition
Imagine trying to bend a steel rod. It's difficult, right? That's the basic idea here. The word describes someone or something that will not bend, change, or compromise. A person like this might insist on doing things exactly their way, even when a different approach would work better. Think of an old-fashioned teacher who refuses to accept late homework, no matter the reason. Sometimes that kind of firmness is useful, like a strong commitment to safety. But if it goes too far, it can cause problems and put strain on relationships.
To be inflexible is to be unable or unwilling to adapt, change, or bend, either literally or figuratively. It goes beyond simply not wanting to change; it suggests deep rigidity.
You might describe a person this way if they are stubborn in their beliefs or habits. "Despite all the evidence, he remained inflexible in his opinion" means he refused to consider other viewpoints. It can also apply to rules, systems, or materials. An inflexible schedule is one that cannot be altered, and an inflexible material, like certain plastics, will not bend easily.
Historically, the word comes from "in-" meaning "not" and "flex," meaning "to bend." Think of a tree in a hurricane: if it is too rigid, it may break. A willow, by contrast, bends with the wind and survives.
In modern usage, inflexibility often carries a negative meaning because it suggests an unwillingness to cooperate or understand other perspectives. However, it can sometimes be positive. A commitment to principles or safety standards may require firmness. "The company has an inflexible policy against discrimination."
So whether it describes a person's character, a rule's rigidity, or a material's resistance to bending, the word highlights a lack of adaptability and a tendency to stay fixed.
Examples
- 1
Physical material
The material is strong but inflexible, so it cracks under pressure.
- 2
Work schedule
Her work schedule is too inflexible for a parent with young children.
- 3
Company policy
The company has an inflexible policy on late payments.
- 4
Deadline
He was inflexible about the deadline, even after we explained the problem.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Negotiation
If both sides stay inflexible, the talks will fail.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- flexible
- open-minded
Used with (collocations)
- inflexible rules
- inflexible attitude
- inflexible policy
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- inflexibleadjective