- Today's Word
Intractable
in-TRAK-tuh-buhl
Definition
- (adjective) Difficult to manage, control, or solve; stubborn.
Example
The negotiations became intractable when neither side would compromise.
Fun Fact
Intractability has been studied in psychology and conflict resolution. From difficult personalities to historical conflicts that seem impossible to resolve, the key to dealing with intractable problems often lies in patience, diplomacy, and creativity. Even legendary figures like Winston Churchill were famously intractable, refusing to back down even in dire situations.
(noun) A burden, duty, or responsibility—especially one that is difficult or unwelcome.
The onus of proving the theory fell on the scientists who proposed it.
From Latin onus, meaning “load” or “burden.”