Intractable vs. Obdurate

Attribute	Intractable	Obdurate
Definition	Difficult to manage or control	Stubbornly resistant to change
Synonyms	Unmanageable, uncontrollable	Stubborn, inflexible
Origin	Latin "intractabilis" meaning not easily controlled	Latin "obduratus" meaning hardened
Behavior	Resists being managed or controlled	Resists being changed or influenced

Definition

Both intractable and obdurate are adjectives used to describe someone or something that is difficult to manage, control, or change. Intractable typically refers to a situation or problem that is hard to deal with or solve, while obdurate is more commonly used to describe a person who is stubborn or unyielding in their opinions or actions.

Characteristics

One key difference between intractable and obdurate is that intractable tends to imply a sense of complexity or difficulty in finding a solution, while obdurate suggests a sense of stubbornness or resistance to change. Intractable problems may require creative thinking or outside-the-box solutions, while obdurate individuals may simply refuse to budge from their position.

Behavior

When faced with an intractable problem, people may feel frustrated or overwhelmed by the lack of progress. They may need to approach the problem from different angles or seek help from others to find a solution. On the other hand, dealing with an obdurate person can be equally challenging, as they may be unwilling to listen to reason or consider alternative viewpoints.

Impact

Intractable problems can have wide-ranging impacts on individuals, organizations, or even entire societies. They may lead to wasted time and resources, increased stress and frustration, or even long-term consequences if left unresolved. Similarly, obdurate individuals can create tension and conflict in personal or professional relationships, hindering progress and causing unnecessary strife.

Approaches

When faced with an intractable problem, it is important to remain open-minded and flexible in your approach. Consider seeking input from others, breaking the problem down into smaller, more manageable parts, or taking a break to gain a fresh perspective. Dealing with an obdurate person may require patience, empathy, and effective communication skills to try to understand their perspective and find common ground.

Resolution

Resolving an intractable problem often requires persistence, creativity, and a willingness to try new approaches. It may involve trial and error, learning from mistakes, and adapting as needed to find a workable solution. Dealing with an obdurate person may require setting boundaries, standing firm in your own beliefs, and knowing when to walk away if necessary.

Conclusion

While intractable and obdurate may share some similarities in terms of being difficult to manage or change, they each have distinct characteristics and require different approaches to address. Whether you are faced with an intractable problem or an obdurate individual, it is important to remain patient, persistent, and open-minded in your efforts to find a resolution.