B1 2K

Rigid

UK //ˈrɪdʒɪd// US //ˈrɪdʒɪd// Pronunciation

Definition

Firm and not flexible; unwilling to change.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Not able to bend or change easily.

Examples

• The rules were too rigid, leaving no room for creativity.
• She has a rigid routine that she follows every day.
• His rigid attitude made it difficult to work as a team.

Usage notes

Use 'rigid' to describe something that is strict or stiff, physically or metaphorically. It's less appropriate for casual conversations about flexible ideas.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'rigid' ruler that can't bend.

Collocations

• rigid structure
• rigid guidelines
• rigid mindset

Synonyms

• stiff
• inflexible
• unyielding
• strict
• firm

Antonyms

• flexible
• yielding
• pliable

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'rigorous' which means strict but refers more to rules or processes.
• Used to describe emotional states instead of physical things.
• Incorrectly spelled as 'rigid' vs. 'rigidly'.