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 drop in temperature seems to be staying for good, which means the real shift to fall outfitting is adamant. Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2025 Whoever wins or doesn’t win, Markman is adamant that trophies don’t define us. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2025 Much to the dismay of Gen Z striving for success with a manageable work-life balance, CEOs are adamant that intense schedules are essential for anyone looking to make it in business. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 13 Oct. 2025 But Capricorn is adamant that the 01 Zagato is on the way. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adamant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adamant
Adjective
  • Month over month, that would be the same stubborn pace that has persisted for more than two years.
    Steve Kopack, NBC news, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Results show that microbial iron mining can immobilize toxic metals and convert stubborn pollutants into less harmful compounds.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Davis, a staunch libertarian, is one of the company’s steadfast defenders.
    David Peisner, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Odinga, who served prison time for his steadfast support for democracy and political reform, played a critical role in replacing a colonial-era charter with the country’s current constitution, which imposes clearer limits on presidential power.
    Ian Bremmer, Time, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The extruder gears and rods are made from hardened steel, which resists wear.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Even a hardened home has weaknesses—in this case, a flammable window frame and unclosed eaves—that can lead to failure.
    Ingfei Chen, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adamant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adamant. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adamant

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