Meanings of 固执
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 固执
Podcast: 固执
Podcast: 固执
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 固执
倔强 (juéjiàng) refers to being strong-willed or resolute, but can imply a more positive connotation of determination compared to 固执, which often suggests an unreasonable stubbornness.
When using '固执', be mindful of the tone as it can imply a negative connotation. It's often used informally among friends or family but can also appear in formal discussions about character traits. A common mistake is to confuse it with '坚持' (jiānchí), which means to persist but with a more positive connotation.
As an HSK Level 6 word, '固执' is relevant when discussing personal traits and character evaluations. Students should focus on understanding its nuances in various contexts, especially in contrast to similar terms like '坚持' (to insist/persist).
Learners often confuse '固执' with '顽固' (wángù), which also means stubborn but carries a stronger negative connotation. For example, saying '他很固执' (tā hěn gùzhí) is correct, but saying '他很顽固' (tā hěn wángù) implies a deeper level of stubbornness that may not be intended.
Pronunciation of 固执
Drill the tone of 固执 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
How to say obstinate in Chinese
“obstinate” in Chinese is固执
固执 (gu4 zhi2) refers to a person who is obstinate or stubborn, often refusing to change their opinion or behavior despite persuasion. This term is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts to describe someone who holds firmly to their beliefs or decisions, sometimes to their detriment.
When to use 固执
When using '固执', be mindful of the tone as it can imply a negative connotation. It's often used informally among friends or family but can also appear in formal discussions about character traits. A common mistake is to confuse it with '坚持' (jiānchí), which means to persist but with a more positive connotation.
固执 or something close to it
倔强 (juéjiàng) refers to being strong-willed or resolute, but can imply a more positive connotation of determination compared to 固执, which often suggests an unreasonable stubbornness.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse '固执' with '顽固' (wángù), which also means stubborn but carries a stronger negative connotation. For example, saying '他很固执' (tā hěn gùzhí) is correct, but saying '他很顽固' (tā hěn wángù) implies a deeper level of stubbornness that may not be intended.
Write 固执
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 固执 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 固执
固执 functions as an adjective. In Chinese it behaves like a stative verb: place it directly after the subject without 是 (我很高,not 我是高). Use 不 to negate (不高) and pair it with 很 in plain affirmative sentences. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Complete the Sentence
他的反对者们认为他____、教条、僵化。
His opponents viewed him as stubborn, dogmatic, and inflexible.
Example Sentences for 固执 (6)
Cultural Notes for 固执
In Western cultures, being stubborn might sometimes be viewed as a sign of strong will, while in Chinese culture, it is often seen as a flaw that disrupts social harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions about 固执
'固执' implies a stubbornness that is often detrimental, while '坚持' suggests persistence in a positive sense.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 固执?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.