Thesaurus

inflexibility

Q: How is the word 'inflexible' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words rigid and stiff are common synonyms of inflexible . While all three words mean "difficult to bend," inflexible stresses lack of suppleness or pliability. // ski boots with inflexible soles

Q: In what contexts can 'rigid' take the place of 'inflexible'?

The words rigid and inflexible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rigid applies to something so stiff that it cannot be bent without breaking. // a rigid surfboard

Q: When might 'stiff' be a better fit than 'inflexible'?

The meanings of stiff and inflexible largely overlap; however, stiff may apply to any degree of this condition. // stretching keeps your muscles from becoming stiff

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of inflexibility

(Entry 1 of 2)

the quality or state of being demanding or unyielding (as in discipline or criticism)

the principal's inflexibility in matters of discipline is the stuff of school legend

Synonyms for inflexibility

Words Related to inflexibility

dourness,
gruffness

Near Antonyms for inflexibility

Antonyms for inflexibility

inflexible

adjective

Synonyms & Antonyms of inflexible (Entry 2 of 2)

1 not capable of changing or being changed

the inflexible law of gravity

Synonyms for inflexible

Words Related to inflexible

Near Antonyms for inflexible

Antonyms for inflexible

2 incapable of or highly resistant to bending

shoes made of inflexible plastic hurt my feet

Synonyms for inflexible

Words Related to inflexible

inelastic

brittle,
crisp

Near Antonyms for inflexible

malleable,
plastic

semiflexible

Antonyms for inflexible

3 not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards

inflexible entry rules for the contest ban anyone who works for the company as well as any of their relatives

Synonyms for inflexible

Words Related to inflexible

Near Antonyms for inflexible

Antonyms for inflexible

4 sticking to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion

her inflexible father was unmoved by tears and pleading, and he grounded her anyway

Synonyms for inflexible

Words Related to inflexible

bloody-minded
[chiefly British],
cantankerous

contrary,
cussed

demanding,
exacting

Phrases Synonymous with inflexible

deaf to reason

Near Antonyms for inflexible

Antonyms for inflexible

Frequently Asked Questions About inflexibility

How is the word inflexible distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words rigid and stiff are common synonyms of inflexible. While all three words mean "difficult to bend," inflexible stresses lack of suppleness or pliability.

ski boots with inflexible soles

In what contexts can rigid take the place of inflexible?

The words rigid and inflexible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rigid applies to something so stiff that it cannot be bent without breaking.

a rigid surfboard