Intractable: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS

Some problems in life can be solved with compromise, negotiation, or patience, but others refuse to bend. The word of the day, ‘intractable,’ is reserved for those challenges, issues, or individuals that are exceptionally difficult to deal with, control, or resolve. As a result, learning the correct use of the word is essential to boost your vocabulary.

 This blog provides the meaning, history, and proper usage of the term ‘intractable’, solidifies your understanding through practical exercises, and adding it to your IELTS Vocabulary words list for Band 8 or 9 will help you achieve your desired score. 

Meaning of Intractable

• Pronunciation: /ɪnˈtræktəbəl/ (sounds like uhn·trak·tuh·bl)

The adjective ‘intractable’ means ‘not easily managed, controlled, or solved; not easily relieved or cured’. 

It is a powerful academic and formal word frequently used in news reports, academic writing, government documents, and high-level IELTS essays to describe complex social, medical, political, or emotional situations.

History and Origin of ‘Intractable’

The origin of ‘intractable’ clearly reflects its sense of resistance and difficulty. It comes from:

• Latin ‘intractabilis’, meaning ‘not easily handled or managed’
• From ‘in-’ (not) + ‘tractare’ (to handle or manage)

It entered the English language in the early 15th century, originally used to describe stubborn animals or people. Over time, its use expanded to complex problems, political disputes, medical conditions, and scientific challenges.

Usage & Examples of Intractable

Let’s explore how ‘intractable’ is used in different contextual situations using the examples given below.

• It has been and remains the most intractable problem of world diplomacy.
• It was a breathtakingly audacious solution to an intractable problem, and the results were to be breathtaking as well.
• Even more seemingly intractable problems will be posed by attempts to store virtual reality.
• Economic disparities grow ever greater and more intractable.
• The dispute between the two communities became intractable after several failed negotiations.
• Some medical conditions remain intractable despite years of scientific research.
• The CEO described the declining profits as an intractable problem that required structural change.

IELTS Usage of ‘Intractable’

‘Intractable’ is excellent for IELTS Writing Task 2 as well as Speaking responses when discussing social problems, international conflicts, environmental challenges, healthcare issues, or difficult personal experiences. It adds academic weight and demonstrates advanced vocabulary control. 

IELTS Speaking Part 2

• Cue Card: Describe a difficult situation you encountered in your life.
• Answer Excerpt: “One intractable situation I faced was preparing for my final university examinations while working part-time to support myself. Balancing both commitments became overwhelming, and I struggled to find enough time for sleep and revision."

IELTS Writing Task 2

• Topic: Some global challenges, such as poverty and climate change, seem too challenging to solve. Do you agree or disagree?
• Answer Excerpt: Some global issues have become intractable due to political agendas and the lack of international cooperation. For example, climate change requires collective action, yet many countries prioritise short-term economic gains. 

Synonyms and Antonyms of ‘Intractable’

The table below provides a list of synonyms and antonyms of ‘intractable, complete with their meanings and example sentences.

Exercise to Master the Meaning of ‘Intractable’

Now, it is time to complete the exercise that follow to improve your understanding of the word ‘intractable’.

1 Which sentence uses ‘intractable’ correctly?

A The intractable child completed all his homework without being asked.

B The negotiations became intractable, and neither side was willing to compromise.

C The professor gave intractable feedback that helped students improve.

D The meeting was short because the problem was intractable.

2 Which situation BEST represents an ‘intractable problem’?

A A math question that can be solved with a basic calculator.

B A company dispute that has lasted years despite mediation and legal involvement.

C A project completed ahead of schedule due to clear planning.

D A small issue that customer service resolved in one phone call.

3 The word ‘intractable’ is closest in meaning to:

A Cooperative

B Easily resolved

C Hard to control or deal with

D Predictable

4 Choose the sentence where ‘intractable’ is used INCORRECTLY:

A The economic crisis proved intractable, forcing officials to rethink long-term policies.

B Climate change has become one of the most intractable challenges of modern times. 

C The intractable spread of misinformation became a major challenge for educators.

D Her intractable dedication to her goals impressed everyone around her.

5 Choose the sentence that BEST reflects ‘intractable’ referring to human behaviour:

A Her intractable refusal to accept feedback made improvement nearly impossible.

B The class was intractable because the students completed all assignments early.

C His intractable openness to new ideas impressed the panel.

D The coach found the team intractable because they followed instructions too strictly.

Answer Keys

In conclusion, ‘intractable’ is a strong and formal word that conveys resistance, difficulty, and long-term challenge. So, start using this word in your IELTS Speaking and writing answers, especially in academic, political, legal, and social contexts, as using it correctly can elevate the tone of essays and speaking responses, demonstrating confidence and mastery of advanced vocabulary.

Useful Links:

• Squander: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Callous - Word Of The Day For IELTS Speaking And Writing
• Impertinent - Word Of The Day For IELTS Speaking And Writing
• Ludicrous - Word Of The Day For IELTS Speaking And Writing
• Cambridge English Vocabulary in Use Advanced: Ebook with Answers
• Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS 7.0-9.0: Practice Exercises and Answer Key (Part 1)