recalcitrant

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ms. Goldstein imagines a sweet spot that allows us to “objectively distinguish between better and worse ways to satisfy the longing to matter” while being “expansive enough to accommodate us in all our recalcitrant diversity.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

“The fact that McDonnell and his staff are so recalcitrant — and are so reluctant — to do their jobs is shameful.”

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2025

“The Justice Department covers the entire nation, and they have the resources to take on the most recalcitrant and stubborn state actors,” he explained.

From Slate • Jul. 5, 2025

"The first and hardest battle was to change mentality. His job was rendered difficult by recalcitrant culture."

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2024

Like a recalcitrant child, however, color in art refuses to be governed by any rules.

From "History of Art, Volume 1" by H.W. Janson