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 Keeping her content respectful is also important, and Abrams is adamant about telling these individual's stories and restoring their graves with their humanity in mind. Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025 This came after previous reports that Harry was adamant about protecting the couple’s children. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 29 Oct. 2025 Asked, in fact, whether any of the plazas or parks or streets in the development will bear their name, Chris was adamant. Kansas City Star, 27 Oct. 2025 However, Serafini is adamant that CURE's policy paperwork did in fact show the son as a driver. Jc Reindl, Freep.com, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adamant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adamant
Adjective
  • That individual brilliance which can produce a moment of magic to break open a stubborn defence is harder to come by.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Be sure to pay extra attention to stubborn stains.
    Jennifer Beck Goldblatt, Architectural Digest, 31 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Jeff is known as a selfless mentor and a steadfast colleague.
    Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Beyond her torrid relationship with Taissa Turner, Van felt like a voice of reason in a sea of noise — steadfast in her effort to reform after her time in The Wilderness rather than succumbing to its violent will.
    Catherine Mhloyi, Them., 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Against armored targets, the outer jacket is stripped away upon impact, allowing the hardened steel core to penetrate alone.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2025
  • The extruder gears and rods are made from hardened steel, which resists wear.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adamant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adamant. Accessed 3 Nov. 2025.

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