Stubborn as a Mule: The Obstinate Challenge
A whole-class quiz exploring the word 'obstinate' and related character traits and idioms, from basic meaning to subtle usage in context.
A free Millionaire Quiz for Teens at CEFR B2 level. Topic: Obstinate.
Questions
- Someone who is 'obstinate' refuses to change their mind, even when other people disagree. Which word best matches this meaning? — A) Shy B) Stubborn C) Forgetful D) Flexible
- Her grandfather is famous for his 'iron will.' What does this phrase describe? — A) A weak and tired body B) A talent for making things with metal C) A strong, unbreakable determination D) A gentle, forgiving nature
- A 'trait' is a word teachers often use when discussing personality. What does it mean? — A) A mistake someone makes often B) A particular quality of someone's character C) A type of school subject D) A physical illness
- A 'down-to-earth' person is usually described as... — A) Easily upset by small problems B) Practical, honest, and not pretending to be special C) Very wealthy and showing off their money D) Interested only in abstract, theoretical ideas
- In the sentence 'My dad finally put his foot down about my curfew,' what does this idiom suggest about his behaviour? — A) He calmly agreed to a new compromise B) He firmly refused to allow something any longer C) He forgot what he had promised earlier D) He accidentally hurt his foot while walking
- Teachers often 'nod in approval' when a student explains something well. Which action does this idiom actually describe? — A) Smiling widely without saying anything B) Shaking the head to show disagreement C) Crossing arms to show impatience D) Moving the head up and down to show agreement
- Despite being from a privileged background, Maya has an unassuming manner. What does this contrast suggest about her? — A) She constantly reminds people of her wealth and status B) She refuses to speak to people from poorer backgrounds C) She doesn't act superior, even though she has many…
- During the storm, the captain 'didn't bat an eyelid' when the crew panicked. What does this tell us about the captain? — A) He stayed completely calm and showed no fear B) He closed his eyes and refused to look at the storm C) He became extremely anxious and started shouting D) He blinked nervously…
- A journalist wrote: 'Some critics condone the politician's refusal to compromise, calling it principled strength, while others call it obstinate pride.' What does 'condone' mean here? — A) To completely ignore an idea without comment B) To accept or approve of something, even if it's controversial…
- A book review says: 'The memoir offers a compelling and accurate portrayal of a man whose obstinate refusal to give up helped him survive poverty-stricken years.' Which word pair best fits in place of the underlined phrases? — A) Boring account / flexible attitude B) Captivating story / stubborn…
Printable worksheet
This Millionaire Quiz comes with a free printable worksheet: 2 parts for students to do after the game, and an answer key for the teacher. It prints at three levels (Support, Core and Challenge); this is the Challenge sheet. Sign in free to print the whole sheet.
What's on the worksheet
- Answer from memory · No options this time. Write the answer.
- Write your own question · Write a new question about obstinate, with one right answer and three wrong ones.
Part 1: Answer from memory
No options this time. Write the answer.
- Someone who is 'obstinate' refuses to change their mind, even when other people disagree. Which word best matches this meaning?
- Her grandfather is famous for his 'iron will.' What does this phrase describe?
- A 'trait' is a word teachers often use when discussing personality. What does it mean?