obstinately

Obstinately is an adverb describing a manner that is stubborn and unyielding, often in spite of reason or argument. It conveys obstinacy, the quality of persisting in a course of action despite objections or contrary evidence. In usage, obstinately frequently carries a negative connotation, implying irrational rigidity, though in some contexts it may acknowledge steadfastness or persistence.

Etymology and development: obstinately derives from the adjective obstinate, which comes from Latin obstinatus “stubborn,” from obstinare “to persist,” via Old French obstiner. The adverbial form was created in English by adding the suffix -ly, aligning with other adverbs that describe manner of action.

Usage notes: The term is more common in formal, literary, or journalistic writing than in casual speech. It typically modifies actions or decisions, as in, for example, "The council obstinately refused to reconsider its position," signaling a perceived excessive rigidity rather than a neutral evaluation of persistence.

Examples: "She obstinately held to her beliefs despite contradictory data." "The team obstinately pursued the project, even after setbacks." These examples illustrate the word’s emphasis on a stubborn, unyielding approach to an issue or task.

Related terms: obstinacy (n.), obstinate (adj.), with synonyms such as stubbornly, persistently, pertinaciously, and antonyms like flexibly or compliantly.

See also: obstinacy, stubbornness.