ngoan cố

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The Vietnamese word "ngoan cố" is an adjective that translates to "stubborn," "obstinate," or "contumacious" in English. It describes someone who is unwilling to change their mind or behavior, even when faced with good reasons to do so.

Usage Instructions:

• "Ngoan cố" is used to describe people, especially when they refuse to listen to advice or consider other viewpoints.
• It can have a negative connotation, implying that the person is being unreasonable or difficult.

Example Sentences:

1. Cô ấy rất ngoan cố và không chịu lắng nghe ý kiến của người khác.
   (She is very stubborn and refuses to listen to other people's opinions.)

2. Anh ta ngoan cố đến mức không chấp nhận sai lầm của mình.
   (He is so obstinate that he won't admit his mistakes.)

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "ngoan cố" can be used to describe not just individuals but also groups or organizations that refuse to adapt to change or reject new ideas.

Word Variants:

• Ngoan cố hóa: To become stubborn or to make someone else stubborn.
• Sự ngoan cố: The state of being stubborn, or stubbornness.

Different Meanings:

The primary meaning of "ngoan cố" relates to stubbornness in a negative sense. However, in some contexts, it can describe a strong commitment to one's principles, though this is less common and can still carry a hint of negativity.

Synonyms:

• Bướng bỉnh: Another word for stubborn or obstinate.
• Cứng đầu: Literally means "hard-headed," also refers to someone who is stubborn.
• Khăng khăng: Insists on something, can imply stubbornness in a more determined way.

Antonyms:

• Dễ bảo: This means "compliant" or "easy to persuade," the opposite of being stubborn.

Academic

adj

1. stubborn; obstinate; contumacious