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intractable

adjective

/ɪnˈtraktəbl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of intractable

Extremely difficult to manage, control, or resolve due to its stubborn, unyielding, or resistant nature.
"The intractable behavior of the employee led to disciplinary action."

Detailed meaning of intractable

When we label a problem, situation, or person as intractable, we emphasize the formidable challenges involved in dealing with it. Intractable issues are often marked by a lack of cooperation, an unwillingness to compromise, or an absence of feasible solutions. This term conveys a sense of frustration and helplessness, underscoring the persistent and seemingly insurmountable nature of the problem at hand. Whether it's an intractable conflict, an intractable disease, or an intractable personality, this adjective highlights the formidable obstacles and resistance that can make resolution or management a daunting task.

Example sentences containing intractable

1. The intractable problem had the entire team stumped.
2. His intractable attitude made negotiations difficult.
3. We faced an intractable challenge in aligning the interests of all stakeholders.
4. Despite his intelligence, he was often intractable and difficult to teach.
5. The government is struggling with intractable issues of unemployment and inflation.
6. We seem to have reached an intractable point in the discussions.

History and etymology of intractable

The adjective 'intractable' has its etymological roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word 'intractabilis,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'tractare,' meaning 'to handle' or 'to manage.' 'Tractare' itself is derived from 'tractus,' which means 'to drag' or 'to pull.' When we apply this etymology to 'intractable,' it conveys the idea of something being extremely difficult to manage, control, or resolve due to its stubborn, unyielding, or resistant nature. The term underscores the challenge of trying to handle or deal with something that refuses to be easily guided or influenced. When we describe a problem, person, or situation as 'intractable' today, we are drawing on its Latin origins to emphasize the formidable and uncooperative character of that which is being described.

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Further usage examples of intractable

1. The intractable nature of the disease has puzzled scientists for years.
2. The intractable child refused to comply with his parents' requests.
3. Some social issues have proven to be intractable despite numerous efforts.
4. His intractable temperament was a cause for concern among his colleagues.
5. The negotiations were stalled due to intractable disagreements.
6. Despite therapy and medication, her depression remained intractable.
7. The project hit a snag due to intractable technical issues.
8. Dealing with intractable pain requires a comprehensive approach.
9. The intractable problems of urban planning require innovative solutions.
10. His intractable persistence eventually led to his success.
11. The intractable political crisis resulted in a stalemate.
12. She is grappling with the intractable complexities of quantum physics.
13. Our team is facing an intractable deficit in this quarter's budget.
14. The intractable student refused to follow the rules of the class.