Vocabulary Spotlight

Adamant

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: Unyielding or inflexible; refusing to change one’s mind or stance.

“Despite the criticism, she remained adamant about her decision.”

Pronunciation

[AD-uh-muhnt]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Unyielding
Inflexible
Stubborn
Resolute
Steadfast

Antonyms

Flexible
Yielding
Lenient
Soft
Compromising

Related Words

Resolute
Firm
Determined

Word Origin

“Adamant” originates from the Greek “adamantos,” meaning “unbreakable” or “invincible.”

Word Family

Adjective: Adamant – Unyielding or determined.

Noun: Adamance – The quality of being unyielding.

Adverb: Adamantly – In a firm and resolute manner.

Mnemonics

Think “A Dam that Won’t Budge” – Adamant refers to being firm and unyielding, like an unbreakable barrier.

Industry-specific Usage

Business

In business negotiations, an adamant stance may signal firm resistance to a proposal.

Politics

Political leaders may be adamant about certain policies, refusing to compromise on key issues.

Law

Lawyers may be adamant in defending their clients, showing unwavering commitment to their case.

In Context

Adamant describes a strong-willed, inflexible attitude, often used when someone is unyielding in their stance or opinion, regardless of opposition.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is an antonym of “Adamant”?

Unyielding
Resolute
Steadfast
Flexible

‘Flexible’ is correct as it indicates openness to change, unlike adamant’s firmness.

2. Fill in the blank: He was _______ about his decision to move abroad, despite family opposition.

adamant
yielding
flexible
soft

‘Adamant’ is appropriate as it describes a determined, unyielding attitude.

3. In which context would “adamant” be MOST appropriate?

Changing one’s opinion easily
Refusing to compromise on a stance
Being indecisive
Remaining undecided

‘Refusing to compromise on a stance’ is correct as adamant implies firmness.