意地を張る

• Reading: いじをはる
• Romaji: iji wo haru
• Kanji breakdown: 意 (i) — intention, will; 地 (ji/chi) — ground, disposition; 張 (chō/ha) — stretch, stick
• Pronunciation: /i.d͡ʑi.o.ha.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be stubborn; to not give in; to persist obstinately. Refusing to back down or compromise out of pride.

An expression using Group 1 (godan) verb 張る (to stretch, to stick to). Describes stubbornly clinging to one's position or pride, often at one's own expense. Can be used both critically and with grudging admiration, depending on context. Related to the noun 意地 (willpower, stubbornness).

Examples

1. 意地を張らないで素直に謝ったほうがいい。 You'd be better off swallowing your pride and apologizing sincerely.
2. 彼は意地を張って最後まで一人でやり遂げた。 He stubbornly dug in and saw it through to the end on his own.
3. 意地を張るのはやめて、助けを求めよう。 Stop being stubborn and ask for help.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, arguments, daily life

Tone: critical

Origin & History

Combines 意地 (willpower, disposition) with 張る (to stretch tight, to maintain tension). The image is of stretching one's will taut like a bowstring, refusing to let it slacken or yield.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal