Unpliable

Unpliable describes something that is not easily bent, shaped, or molded; lacking flexibility. This characteristic can apply to physical objects, personalities, or even abstract concepts. A material's unpliable nature might stem from its inherent stiffness or the way it is constructed. Similarly, an unpliable person may be resistant to change or persuasion, displaying a stubborn or rigid attitude. The term highlights a resistance to yielding, bending, or adapting to external forces or influences, whether tangible or metaphorical.

Unpliable meaning with examples

• The ancient oak branch, weathered by years of storms, proved utterly unpliable when the gardener attempted to bend it for a specific aesthetic. The tough, dried wood resisted any force, a testament to its age and the rigid structure of its fibers. He eventually had to saw the wood rather than reshaping it.
• Despite repeated attempts to soften it, the cold, hardened clay remained unpliable, frustrating the sculptor's attempts to create flowing forms. It crumbled instead of bending to the artist's will, forcing them to rethink their entire design and switch materials.
• The new manager's unpliable stance on company policy created tension within the team. He refused to consider alternative approaches or compromise on established procedures, leading to frustration and a decline in employee morale.
• The politician's unpliable approach to negotiations ensured a deadlock on crucial legislation. They refused to budge on their initial demands, demonstrating a lack of willingness to consider alternative viewpoints, thereby hindering progress.