French Conversation · Level 90
58 words
French word
rétif
Pronunciation
IPA/ʁetif/
Meaning
- adjectivestubborn
Example
Elle est rétive sur ce point.
She is stubborn on this point.
More examples
Il est rétif à changer d'avis.
He is resistant to changing his mind.
Core concept
A horse braces its legs against the reins, and a person similarly resists direction or demands.
Common phrases
être rétif à
be resistant to
rétif au changement
resistant to change
se montrer rétif
act defiant
Similar words
têtu: Unwilling to change an opinion or approach despite persuasion or advice.
obstiné: Firmly determined to pursue a chosen course to the end.
récalcitrant: Openly defiant toward authority or orders and unwilling to comply.
difficile: Difficult to manage and not readily cooperative or obedient.
Definition in French
Qui refuse de se laisser guider ou d'obéir facilement et qui oppose une résistance parfois vive ou nerveuse.
Word origin
French rétif comes from Old French restif or retif, meaning resistant or holding back, from Latin restare, meaning to remain standing or stay back.
Usage tips
- With people, rétif is relatively formal and commonly takes à, as in rétive à toute consigne; colloquial French often uses têtu or difficile instead.