inflexível

Inflexível is a Portuguese adjective used to describe something or someone that does not bend, yield, or adapt. Literally, it refers to physical rigidity, but it is commonly employed figuratively to denote a stance, policy, or approach that resists compromise or change.

The term comes from Latin inflexibilis, formed by in- (not) and flexibilis (flexible). Related words include inflexibilidade, the noun for inflexibility or uncompromising disposition, and inflexivelmente, the adverb meaning in an inflexible manner.

In everyday language, inflexível is often used to characterize attitudes or rules that refuse concessions, as in uma postura inflexível or uma política inflexível. It can carry a negative connotation, suggesting stubbornness or unreasonable rigidity. In neutral or technical contexts, it may describe physical or mechanical properties that resist deformation, though precise terminology is common in engineering.

Synonyms include rígido, obstinado, and intransigente, each with nuance. Rígido focuses more on stiffness, either literal or figurative; obstinado emphasizes stubborn persistence; intransigente highlights uncompromising firmness. The choice among them depends on whether the emphasis is on literal stiffness, personal attitude, or unwillingness to negotiate.

See also: flexibilidade, que representa a capacidade de se adaptar. Inflexível is widely used across Brazilian and European Portuguese, with similar meaning and occasional nuance depending on context.