Meaning
To be resistant to change or persuasion.
Cultural Background
Being 'tête dure' is sometimes seen as a regional trait, particularly attributed to people from Brittany (les Bretons), who are stereotypically known for their persistence and stubbornness. In Quebec, the phrase is used identically, but you might also hear 'avoir la tête de cochon' (to have the head of a pig) for extreme stubbornness.
Don't use 'être'
This is the #1 mistake. Remember: You HAVE a hard head, you ARE NOT a hard head.
Gender Agreement
Even if you are a man, say 'J'ai la tête dure'. The 'e' on 'dure' stays because 'tête' is feminine.
Meaning
To be resistant to change or persuasion.
Don't use 'être'
This is the #1 mistake. Remember: You HAVE a hard head, you ARE NOT a hard head.
Gender Agreement
Even if you are a man, say 'J'ai la tête dure'. The 'e' on 'dure' stays because 'tête' is feminine.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct verb.
Mon frère ___ la tête dure.
We use the verb 'avoir' (to have) with this idiom.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Select the right form:
'Tête' is feminine, so we use 'la' and 'dure'.
In which situation would you use 'avoir la tête dure'?
Match the context:
The idiom refers to stubbornness.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'Avoir la tête dure'
Family
- • Stubborn kids
- • Old-fashioned parents
Work
- • Rigid bosses
- • Difficult colleagues
Practice Bank
3 exercisesMon frère ___ la tête dure.
We use the verb 'avoir' (to have) with this idiom.
Select the right form:
'Tête' is feminine, so we use 'la' and 'dure'.
Match the context:
The idiom refers to stubbornness.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt's usually a mild criticism, but it can be used affectionately between friends or family.
Yes! You can say 'Je sais, j'ai la tête dure' to admit you are being stubborn.
Related Phrases
Têtu comme une mule
synonymStubborn as a mule.
N'en faire qu'à sa tête
similarTo only do what one wants.
Avoir le cuir épais
similarTo be thick-skinned.
