dig in your heels
Meaning
To refuse to change your mind; to become stubbornly resistant to pressure or compromise.
Origin
From the physical act of digging your heels into the ground to brace yourself and resist being pushed or pulled; this image broadened into resisting change or persuasion.
Notes
Often implies stubbornness and unwillingness to compromise; common in arguments or negotiations. Slightly negative and can sound accusatory.
Examples
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When the manager asked her to work weekends again, she dug in her heels and refused.
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I tried to convince him to sell the old house, but he just dug in his heels.
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If we dig in our heels now, we’ll miss the chance to compromise.
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The committee dug in its heels and wouldn’t change the policy despite public pressure.
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She tends to dig in her heels whenever someone questions her decisions.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a verb phrase: “dig in your heels” / “dug in his heels.” Also common as “dig your heels in.” Possessive can vary (my/your/his/their).
Synonyms
- stand your ground
- hold your ground
- be stubborn
- dig your feet in
- refuse to budge
Antonyms
- give in
- back down
- yield
- budge
- compromise