Inflexible is an adjective that means not able to be changed or adapted easily. It is spelled [ɪnˈflɛksəbəl], with the stress on the second syllable. The word begins with the sound /ɪ/, as in "big" or "it," followed by the sound /n/ as in "no" or "new". The third sound is /ˈflɛks/ which sounds like "flex." The last syllable is pronounced as /əbəl/, which rhymes with "noble." Inflexible is a challenging word to spell, but one worth learning for effective communication.
The term "inflexible" refers to a characteristic or quality possessed by a person or thing that lacks flexibility, adaptability, or the ability to change or adjust easily in response to varying circumstances or situations. It suggests a rigidity in mindset, behavior, or structure that resists modification or alteration.
When describing a person, inflexible denotes an individual who adheres strictly to their own beliefs, opinions, or principles, and is resolute or unwilling to consider alternative perspectives. They may have a firm and unbending adherence to rules or routines, resisting any deviation from established norms. This inflexibility can manifest in interpersonal relationships, making it difficult for them to compromise or find common ground with others.
In the context of objects or things, an inflexible object is one that cannot easily be bent, stretched, or manipulated. It lacks pliability or elasticity, being resistant to motion or change. This quality can be found in materials such as metals or hard plastics that do not easily deform. Inflexible structures or systems can refer to those that are unyielding or resistant to modification, often associated with hierarchical or rigid organizational frameworks.
Overall, "inflexible" characterizes a lack of adaptability, rigidity, or resistance to change in individuals, objects, and systems, implying an unwillingness to modify or accommodate new circumstances or ideas.
That cannot be bent; not to be moved or prevailed on by entreaty or argument; unyielding; inexorable.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word inflexible originates from Latin inflexibilis, which is derived from the combination of the negative prefix in- and flexibilis, the adjective form of flexus, the past participle of the verb flectere. Flectere means to bend or to bow in Latin. Therefore, the word inflexible literally means not able to be bent or not capable of being flexed.