intractable (ɪnˈtræktəbəll
)
Definitions
adjective
- difficult to influence or direct ⇒
an intractable disposition
- (of a problem, illness, etc) difficult to solve, alleviate, or cure
- difficult to shape or mould, esp with the hands
Alternative Forms
inˌtractaˈbility inˈtractableness noun inˈtractably adverbSynonyms
View thesaurus entry=
difficult,
contrary,
awkward,
wild,
stubborn,
perverse,
wayward,
unruly,
uncontrollable,
wilful,
incurable,
fractious,
unyielding,
obstinate,
intransigent,
headstrong,
unmanageable,
undisciplined,
cantankerous,
unbending,
obdurate,
uncooperative,
stiff-necked,
ungovernable,
self-willed,
refractory,
obstreperous,
pig-headed,
bull-headed,
Usage examples
I told myself that something should be done for the parish, but I knew the problems it presented were intractable.
, Absolute Truths (1994)For this reason, there is a tendency to attribute wars to ``primordial' ethnic passions, which makes them seem intractable.
British Medical Journal (2002)A breathtakingly beautiful province with a resilient people is up against seemingly intractable problems.
Globe and Mail (2003)The problem of litter in Glasgow is not new but is indeed singularly intractable.
Glasgow Herald (2001)The rate of Soviet withdrawal became the most intractable point.
, Between Marx and Muhammed (1994)