Synonym Chooser

How is the word adamant different from other adjectives like it?

The words inflexible and obdurate are common synonyms of adamant. While all three words mean "unwilling to alter a predetermined course or purpose," adamant implies utter immovability in the face of all temptation or entreaty.

adamant that the work should continue

When is it sensible to use inflexible instead of adamant?

The words inflexible and adamant can be used in similar contexts, but inflexible implies rigid adherence or even slavish conformity to principle.

inflexible in their demands

When could obdurate be used to replace adamant?

The words obdurate and adamant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, obdurate stresses hardness of heart and insensitivity to appeals for mercy or the influence of divine grace.

obdurate in his refusal to grant clemency

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adamant The Browns and Haslam Sports Group, headed by team owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam, had been adamant that there was no suitable location within city limits and had been confident they’d eventually be cleared to move. Zac Jackson, New York Times, 25 June 2025 Brooke is adamant that there was no practical reason for the tree’s removal. Ashley Vega, People.com, 23 June 2025 But several prosecution witnesses remain adamant that Read is guilty — a claim that underlies the civil complaint. Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 20 June 2025 Football has typically accepted these lapses and quietly moved on, adamant that the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PED) is primarily a problem for other sports. Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for adamant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adamant
Adjective
  • One of the people that is most stubborn in their support of these spendy projects is Senator Todd Young, a Republican from Indiana.
    Roger Valdez, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • For indoor brick, keep it simple by trying a slightly damp brush to sweep away stubborn dirt.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
Adjective
  • But Rosary’s goals and its place in the community have remained steadfast, school leadership says.
    Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 7 July 2025
  • Accessibility and Sustainability Environmental care is one of Bitter End’s most steadfast values.
    Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adamant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adamant. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adamant

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