Spanish -

How To Say "Stubborn" In Spanish

Are you eager to expand your Spanish vocabulary and express the concept of "stubborn" in this beautiful language? Look no further! In this article, we will delve into the various ways to say "stubborn" in Spanish, including regional variations and the nuanced meanings behind the words. Whether you are planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country or simply want to enrich your language skills, this guide will provide you with the essential knowledge you need.

Buy the 10.000 Most Common Spanish Words eBook set.
Learn Spanish smart and efficiently with the top 10.000 Spanish words.

What is "Stubborn" in Spanish?

When it comes to translating "stubborn" into Spanish, there are several words you can use, each with its own regional flavor. Let us explore some of the most commonly used terms:

  • Testarudo (IPA: /tes-ta-ˈru-do/): This word is widely understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world and is often used to describe someone who is unyielding or obstinate.

  • Terco (IPA: /ˈter-ko/): Commonly used in Latin America, particularly in Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina, "terco" refers to someone who is stubborn, inflexible, or resistant to change.

  • Cabezota (IPA: /ka-be-ˈθo-ta/): This term, which translates to "big-headed" or "hard-headed," is popular in Spain and is often used to describe someone who is resolute and refuses to listen to others.

Meaning of "Stubborn" in Spanish

While all these terms share the general meaning of stubbornness, it is important to note that they may carry slightly different connotations depending on the context and region. Here is a breakdown of the nuances:

  • Testarudo emphasizes a strong-willed nature and an inclination to stick to one's beliefs or opinions, often disregarding outside influences.
  • Terco implies a stubbornness that arises from a sense of self-assurance or conviction, often resulting in resistance to change or compromise.
  • Cabezota conveys a stubbornness that is rooted in being strong-headed or having a mind of one's own, often implying a certain level of determination and independence.

4 eBooks of the Spanish Frequency Dictionaries series by MostUsedWords

Take a look at our series of frequency dictionaries to learn Spanish words fast. Stop learning hard, and start learning smart!

How to Say "Stubborn" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "stubborn" in Spanish:

  • Mi abuelo es muy testarudo y nunca cambia de opinión.

(My grandfather is very stubborn and never changes his mind.)

  • No intentes persuadir a María, es demasiado terca para cambiar de idea.

(Don't try to persuade María, she's too stubborn to change her mind.)

  • Mi jefe es un cabezota y nunca acepta sugerencias.

(My boss is a stubborn person and never accepts suggestions.)

  • El niño es tan testarudo que no deja que nadie lo ayude.

(The child is so stubborn that he doesn't let anyone help him.)

  • No hay manera de convencer a Pedro, siempre ha sido muy terco.

(There's no way to convince Pedro; he has always been very stubborn.)

All MostUsedWords Spanish Frequency Dictionaries in Paperback
Take a look at what our customers have to say, and get your Spanish Frequency Dictionaries in paperback here! We offer different levels:

Conclusion

To recap, we have explored three primary ways to say "stubborn" in Spanish: testarudo, terco, and cabezota. Each of these terms carries its own regional variations and distinct shades of meaning. By incorporating these words into your Spanish vocabulary, you will be able to accurately express the concept of stubbornness and better connect with Spanish speakers from different parts of the world.


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published