dig one's heels in
Stand firmly opposed
To dig one's heels in is to refuse to change position or yield, especially when pressured.
The image is of someone bracing against being pushed or dragged forward.
Management wanted cuts, but the union dug their heels in.
The phrase suggests stubborn resistance that may be principled or merely obstinate.
Firmly refusing to yield
- mulishStubbornly refusing to yield
- bullheadedStubbornly refusing to yield
- pigheadedStubbornly refusing to yield
- headstrongStubbornly self-willed
willful · hardheaded · obdurate · dogged · unbending · unbudging · single-minded · inflexible
Capacity to withstand force
- oppositionActive resistance or dissent
- refusalAct of declining
- noncomplianceFailure to follow requirements
- rebellionDefiance of established power
dissent · protest · pushback · counteraction · standing ground · holding out · rejection · noncooperation
Unresolved confrontation between opponents
- impasseSituation without resolution
- deadlockMutual blocking, no progress
- stalemateMutual obstruction preventing progress
- holdoutOne refusing to participate
gridlock · intransigence · hard line · non-starter · stonewalling · brinkmanship · uncompromising · final offer
Firmness of purpose
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
- tenacityPersistent grip or resolve
- fortitudeEnduring courage under pain
grit · backbone · resoluteness · willpower · commitment · dedication · firmness · constancy
obstinate
Firmly refusing to yield
- mulishStubbornly refusing to yield
- bullheadedStubbornly refusing to yield
- pigheadedStubbornly refusing to yield
headstrong · willful · hardheaded · obdurate · dogged · unbending · unbudging · single-minded · inflexible · stiff-necked
resistance
Capacity to withstand force
- oppositionActive resistance or dissent
- refusalAct of declining
- noncomplianceFailure to follow requirements
rebellion · dissent · protest · pushback · counteraction · standing ground · holding out · rejection · noncooperation · confrontation
standoff
Unresolved confrontation between opponents
- impasseSituation without resolution
- deadlockMutual blocking, no progress
- stalemateMutual obstruction preventing progress
holdout · gridlock · intransigence · hard line · non-starter · stonewalling · brinkmanship · uncompromising · final offer · ultimatum
determination
Firmness of purpose
- steadfastnessFirm loyal dedication
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
- tenacityPersistent grip or resolve
fortitude · grit · backbone · resoluteness · willpower · commitment · dedication · firmness · constancy · staunchness
dig one's heels ingive in
Cease resistance, concede
yield · relent · back down · cave in · capitulate
dig one's heels incooperate
Work jointly with others
comply · submit · defer · go along with · play ball
dig one's heels inforge ahead
Proceed with determination
press on · move forward · push forward · advance · make headway