Words / C1

in-FLEKS-uh-bl/ɪnˈfleksəbl/

Inflexible means unwilling or unable to change; also physically rigid: an inflexible deadline, inflexible rules. Flexible (already in the dictionary) sits opposite; a vibe of give is not a waiver of the cap.

Meaning

Unwilling or unable to change; also stiff and hard to bend.

Examples

• “The embargo is inflexible; a lobby mood is not a waiver.”
• “The occupancy cap is inflexible; a vibe of give is not a waiver.”
• “Rigid is the close twin. Unyielding is a cousin. Give is a feeling. A number on a certificate is the rule. Keep the number; save give for the catering headcount if the fire officer still allows it.”

Good to know

Unwilling to change; rigid. Opposite: flexible (already in the dictionary). A vibe ≠ a waiver.

Near in meaning

rigid, unyielding

New