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indocile

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɪnˈdoʊsaɪl/

KK: /ɪnˈdoʊsaɪl/

adjective
Definition

Not willing to be controlled or taught; difficult to manage or discipline.


Example

The indocile student often challenged the teacher's authority.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how indocile that new puppy is?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's like he doesn't want to listen to anyone!
Sloth A
I wonder if he just needs more time to adjust.
Sloth B
Probably, but it's definitely a challenge to train an indocile pet.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
recalcitrant
unruly
disobedient
Antonyms
compliant
obedient
docile
Root Explanation

Indocile is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "docilis" (from Latin, meaning easily taught or docile). The word describes someone who is not easily taught or unmanageable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'easily taught' ('docilis') to remember that indocile refers to someone who is not easily managed or taught.

Visually Confused Words
docile
inductile
inducible
indicible
docible
binocle
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