Proverb / Kotowaza
頑固一徹
Stubbornly sticking to one's own decisions or beliefs without listening to others.
stubbornness that pushes through a single path
Quick Answer
Stubbornly sticking to one's own decisions or beliefs without listening to others.
- Literal Image
- stubbornness that pushes through a single path
- How to Use It
- Used to describe people who are extremely set in their ways. It can be used as a compliment for a craftsman's dedication or as a criticism for someone's lack of flexibility.
Meaning
Describes a person who, once they have made up their mind, will persist with their own ideas regardless of opposition. It implies a strong-willed nature that refuses to compromise or heed the advice of people around them.
Literal Image
stubbornness that pushes through a single path
How to Use It
Used to describe people who are extremely set in their ways. It can be used as a compliment for a craftsman's dedication or as a criticism for someone's lack of flexibility.
Tone
The tone is neutral and can be applied positively or negatively depending on the context.
Examples
祖父は頑固一徹な職人で、道具選びには一切妥協しない。
My grandfather is a stubbornly dedicated craftsman who never compromises on his choice of tools.
頑固一徹に伝統を守り続けることも大切だが、柔軟性も必要だ。
While it is important to stubbornly protect tradition, flexibility is also necessary.
彼は頑固一徹だから、一度言い出したら誰にも止められない。
He is so stubborn that once he has said something, nobody can stop him.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses the specific word Ganko and the more advanced component Ittetsu in a four-character compound.
頑固
がんこ / ganko
stubborn; obstinate
一徹
いってつ / ittetsu
persistently pushing through; headstrong
Usage Profile
Usage note: Note that while it implies stubbornness, it is associated with the 'craftsman spirit' (shokunin kishitsu).
Misread Risk
Do not assume this is always an insult; it can express respect for someone's unwavering principles.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This expression is a combination of the word 'ganko' (stubborn) and 'ittetsu' (to push through one thing).
Index
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Topics
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.