INFLEXIBLE Synonyms: 230 Similar and Opposite Words

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

inflexible

adjective

(ˌ)in-ˈflek-sə-bəl

Definition of inflexible next

as in unchangeable

not capable of changing or being changed the inflexible law of gravity

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in rigid

incapable of or highly resistant to bending shoes made of inflexible plastic hurt my feet

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as in strict

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stubborn

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

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

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 inflexible Outside of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who remains inflexible as his forces continue to grind down Ukraine's defenses in the Donbas, there is a general recognition in Western capitals that a diplomatic agreement is more palpable at this stage than indefinite warfare. —

Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024 The outspoken Goldberg could come across as dogmatic and inflexible, but proved strategic behind the scenes. —

Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 26 Dec. 2024 But critics say the agreements are inflexible, expensive and go beyond correcting constitutional violations. —

Shaila Dewan, New York Times, 24 Dec. 2024 The presence of a fourth heart sound reflects a stiff and inflexible left ventricle. —

Rafle Fernandez, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inflexible

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inflexible

Adjective

This policy change follows a recent executive order mandating federal recognition of only two sexes, male and female, as unchangeable.

— Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY, 28 Jan. 2025
Our rejection of displacement is firm and unchangeable.

— Joel Thayer, Newsweek, 27 Jan. 2025