Reading Theme:

Unyielding: Definition, Usage & Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1:steadfast and firm (unyielding)

unyielding 🔊
/ˌʌnˈjiːldɪŋ/
adj.
not willing to change opinions or decisions, very firm and not giving in to pressure or arguments.
Unyielding person standing firm against crowd pressure, illustrating steadfast resolve.
steadfast and firm 🔊
/ˈstɛdfɑːst ənd ˈfɜːrm/
adj.
Refusing to change opinions or decisions under pressure, showing great resolve and determination.
📁 Category:Social Roles, Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level:Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation
From 'un-' (not) + 'yielding' (bending or giving way). 'Yield' from Old English 'gieldan' (to pay, surrender).
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'un-yielding' as a rock that never yields to pressure, staying firm and solid.
📖 Example
The unyielding protesters continued their peaceful sit-in, even after numerous requests to leave. 🔊 Protesters who remain steadfast continued their sit-in despite repeated requests to leave.
🔗 Collocations
unyielding stance – a firm and unchangeable position
unyielding determination – strong resolve that does not waver
unyielding attitude – a persistent and inflexible manner
🔄 Synonyms
inflexible (adj.) – not willing to change or compromise
adamant (adj.) – refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind
steadfast (adj.) – firmly loyal or constant in opinion or support
🚫 Antonyms
flexible (adj.) – willing to change or adapt easily
yielding (adj.) – giving way under pressure or argument
compliant (adj.) – ready to conform or agree to requests
🌱 Derivatives
unyieldingly (adv.) – in a firm and unchanging manner
unyieldingness (n.) – the quality of being firm and not giving in
📖 Cultural Story
The word combines 'un-' (not) with 'yielding', from Old English 'gieldan'. It emerged in Modern English to describe stubborn attitudes and hard materials, often used in political or engineering contexts.

Meaning 2:hard and solid (unyielding)

unyielding 🔊
/ˌʌnˈjiːldɪŋ/
adj.
hard and solid, not bending or breaking under pressure.
Unyielding granite block supporting heavy weight, demonstrating solid and hard properties.
hard and solid 🔊
/ˈhɑːrd ənd ˈsɒlɪd/
adj.
Physically tough and resistant to bending, breaking, or deformation under force or pressure.
📁 Category:Objects & Materials 🔖 Level:Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example
The unyielding steel beam supported the entire weight of the bridge without bending. 🔊 A hard steel beam bore the bridge's full weight without bending.
🔗 Collocations
unyielding material – a substance that does not deform under pressure
unyielding surface – a hard and resistant exterior
unyielding structure – a construction that remains firm and stable
🔄 Synonyms
rigid (adj.) – not bending or moving easily; stiff
inflexible (adj.) – not capable of being bent or changed in shape
solid (adj.) – firm and stable in form; not liquid or fluid
🚫 Antonyms
flexible (adj.) – able to bend easily without breaking
pliable (adj.) – easily bent or shaped
malleable (adj.) – capable of being hammered or pressed into shape without breaking
🌱 Derivatives
unyieldingly (adv.) – in a manner that does not bend or give way
Wordbook
Font Color:
Background Color:
Your data is saved in this browser