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 Though he was signed to an artist development deal at one point early in his career, Block is adamant that his career ambitions lie solely in the craft of songwriting. Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 1 Aug. 2025 Form and function Mary Carol is a seasoned home chef who was adamant about creating a kitchen that boasts form and function. Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 1 Aug. 2025 While juggling the balance of a busy home life and a corporate job, NYC shooting victim Wesley LePatner was adamant about getting home in time to spend evenings with her husband Evan and their kids. Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 31 July 2025 Since camp got underway, he's been adamant that winning games is far more important than his personal stats. Kevin McCormick, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for adamant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adamant
Adjective
  • Here’s the case for Scorpio: Wednesday is suss, secretive, brooding, vengeful and stubborn.
    Lisa Stardust, People.com, 6 Aug. 2025
  • For Baxter and the stubborn Scot, this marked, at last, the reality of war’s end.
    Charles Pellegrino, Rolling Stone, 6 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Exciting developments are on the horizon, but no matter how ebikes evolve, one rule remains steadfast: Buy a bike from a manufacturer that offers good customer support.
    Stephanie Pearson, Wired News, 8 Aug. 2025
  • From that same place comes her steadfast advocacy for the Latino community.
    Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 6 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adamant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adamant. Accessed 23 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adamant

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