Obdurate - Word of the Day for IELTS Writing and Speaking

The English language has many words that describe human behaviours, but only a few words capture stubbornness with such clarity and precision as the word “obdurate.” This is a strong and formal adjective often used to describe people, systems or attitudes that refuse to change their actions, opinions, or feelings, no matter how logical or emotional the appeal may be. 

Due to its formal tone and clear meaning, the word obdurate is one of the perfect words to use in advanced English, especially in exams like the IELTS.

In this article, we will explore the meaning of obdurate, its history, synonyms and antonyms, most common mistakes in its usage, sample scenarios, and how to use it effectively in IELTS Speaking and Writing! 

Meaning of the Word “Obdurate”

The word “obdurate” is an adjective used to describe someone who is extremely stubborn, or inflexible, mainly when they refuse to change their opinions or behaviour despite request, persuasion or reasoning.

Unlike casual words such as stubborn or adamant, the word “obdurate” often implies deliberate resistance and a strong act of unwillingness to soften one’s stance.

For example:

• “Our committee remained obdurate despite the widespread criticism.”
• “She was obdurate in her refusal to apologise.”

The word “Obdurate” is typically used in formal, serious, or critical scenarios, such as discussions about social attitudes, politics, policies, or leadership.

Where Did the Word “Obdurate” Come From?

The word obdurate comes from the Latin word “obduratus,” and it is the past participle of “obdurare,” meaning to harden or to persist. This Latin origin itself is formed from, “ob” meaning against and “durare” meaning to last or endure

Directly, the word “obdurate” referred to something that had become hardened and was resistant to change. As time went by, this physical meaning shifted into a psychological and behavioural sense, that described people whose minds or attitudes did become hardened.

By the end of the 16th century, the word entered the English language and was commonly used in religious and moral writing in order to describe people who were unmoved by reason, compassion, or moral appeal. Now, it is widely used in academic, legal, and journal contexts.

Synonyms of the Word “Obdurate”

Some of the most commonly used synonyms for obdurate include:

• Stubborn
• Hard-headed
• Inflexibility
• Unyielding
• Uncompromising
• Obstinating
• Rigid

These words can often replace the word “obdurate,” though this word usually sounds more formal and forceful.

Antonyms of the Word “Obdurate”

Opposite meanings of the word “obdurate” focus on openness and adaptability:

• Flexibility
• Agreeable
• Open-minded
• Cooperative
• Willing
• Compliant
• Persuadable
• Adaptable

Knowing this list of antonyms is useful when contrasting viewpoints mainly in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using the Word “Obdurate”

• One common mistake is using the word “obdurate” in casual or friendly conversations. As it carries a strong and often negative tone, this may sound overly harsh in informal situations.
• One more mistake is confusing the word “obdurate” with durable. Though they share a Latin root, durable refers to physical strength or longevity, whereas, obdurate describes behaviour or attitude.
• Students also sometimes use this word to describe short-term stubbornness. However, obdurate usually denotes a deep-rooted, persistent resistance, not a temporary mood.

A Sample Scenario to Use the Word “Obdurate”

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Sample Answer

Describe an individual who refused to change their opinion.

“I once worked under a team lead who was extremely obdurate when it came to learning new technology. Despite repeated opinions and evidence that automation could improve efficiency, she refused to change existing systems. Her obdurate attitude affected the team’s productivity and caused frustration among other employees as days went by.”

This answer shows precise vocabulary use and strong language control.

Examples to Understand the Usage of “Obdurate”

• We had an advantageous hand in this situation but the problem still remained obdurate.
• I am surprised by his obdurate behaviour when it comes to feminism.
• The reason behind their breakup was his obdurate behaviour.
• I don’t want to look obdurate or intolerant in this conversation, thus, I rest my case.
• Society still chooses to be obdurate when it comes to the freedom of women.
• The scenarios that can arise when an obdurate government and the equally obdurate protestors clash are imaginable.
• For me, one of the most obdurate situations is to tackle the finances.
• I am financially independent, so I don’t take any obdurate attitude at this point of time in my life.
• There is not enough the protestors could do to change the obdurate stance of the government.
• I had gone to seek his help but his obdurate attitude didn’t seem favourable enough for a logical conversation.
• I hope that he reflects upon his actions and notices that he was not being brave but an obdurate person.
• He was obdurate before, but my well-researched statistics and facts made him change his mind.

These set of examples show how this word is often used in critical or evaluative contexts.

Using “Obdurate” in IELTS Speaking & Writing

In the IELTS Speaking test, obdurate is best suited for the Part 2 and Part 3 tasks, mainly when discussing leadership, decision-making, social issues, or conflict. 

Using a precise word just like “obdurate” shows advanced vocabulary, but it should be used properly, carefully and not forced into your answer.

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, obdurate is a highly appropriate word due to its formal tone. It works perfectly in IELTS opinion essays, discursive essays, and problem solution essays.

For Example:

“An obdurate attitude of people towards environmental regulations may result in long-term ecological damage.”

These kinds of usage strengthen your argument and show lexical sophistication.

Including words like "Obdurate" in your IELTS answers helps you express your views about doing something on a daily basis, easily. Practising this word in various contexts as you prepare for your test will expand your vocabulary range and help you achieve a higher IELTS Band Score!