GRE Vocabulary: Understanding ‘Intransigence’
Learn the meaning, usage, and importance of ‘intransigence’ for your GRE preparation. This video explores the word’s definition, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, and provides example sentences to help you master this crucial vocabulary term.
Imagine a stubborn child refusing to eat their vegetables, no matter what. That’s intransigence in action, and understanding this word could be crucial for your GRE success.
Let’s explore the meaning and usage of intransigence to boost your vocabulary and test performance.
Word type: Intransigence is a noun.
Meaning: Intransigence refers to the quality of being unwilling to change one’s views or to agree to a compromise.
It’s essentially an uncompromising and stubborn attitude or behavior.
Word history: The word intransigence comes from the Latin word intransigentem, meaning not coming to an agreement.
It’s composed of in meaning not, and transigere meaning to come to an agreement. This term entered the English language in the early twentieth century, derived from Spanish intransigencia, which was used to describe political extremism.
Antonyms: Some antonyms of intransigence include flexibility, compromise, adaptability, and accommodation.
Synonyms: Synonyms for intransigence include stubbornness, obstinacy, inflexibility, and unyieldingness.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how intransigence can be used in context. The diplomat’s intransigence during negotiations led to a breakdown in international relations.
Despite the company’s intransigence on worker benefits, the union continued to push for better conditions.
The professor’s intransigence regarding the assignment deadline frustrated many students who were hoping for an extension.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing intransigence with ignorance. While intransigence implies a conscious decision not to change one’s stance, ignorance simply means lack of knowledge.
Another error is using intransigence to describe a temporary disagreement rather than a persistent unwillingness to compromise.
Understanding and correctly using intransigence can significantly enhance your GRE verbal performance.
Remember, it’s about an unyielding attitude, not just disagreement. By mastering words like this, you’re not just preparing for a test, but also enriching your ability to express complex ideas precisely in your academic and professional life.
