Itsepäinen

Itsepäinen is a Finnish adjective meaning stubborn or obstinate, characterized by a strong resistance to changing one’s mind and a persistent adherence to one’s own plans or opinions. The term often carries a negative nuance, suggesting inflexibility, but it can also reflect a determined or principled stance in certain contexts.

Etymology and sense: Itsepäinen is formed from itse, meaning “self,” and the suffix -päinen, which indicates a characteristic or relation to a head or mind. Metaphorically, it describes someone who relies on their own mind or judgment, hence “self-willed” or “headstrong.”

Usage and nuance: Itsepäinen is commonly used in everyday Finnish to describe people who refuse to be swayed by others’ views. It can appear in light humor or criticism, for example when commenting on a family member who insists on their own way, or in more serious assessments of a person’s resolve. The adverb form is itsepäisesti, and the noun is itsepäisyys (stubbornness or stubborn quality). Related terms include sitkeys (tenacity) and päättäväisyys (determination), which can carry a more positive connotation.

Antonyms and relationships: Antonyms include sopeutuvainen or joustava, describing adaptability or flexibility. Itsepäinen contrasts with these traits by emphasizing self-directed resistance to external influence rather than outward cooperation.

See also: itsepäisyys, sitkeys, päättäväisyys.