一意孤行
act on one's own initiative他总是一意孤行,不听任何人的建议。
He always acts on his own initiative and never listens to anyone's advice.
To stubbornly follow one's own course of action despite advice or opposition; to act independently without considering others' opinions.
领导一意孤行地推行新政策,导致员工不满。
The leader stubbornly pushed through the new policy on his own initiative, causing dissatisfaction among employees.
她一意孤行地坚持自己的计划,最终项目失败了。
She stubbornly insisted on her own plan, and the project ultimately failed.
Often implies a negative connotation of arrogance or lack of collaboration.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Idiom vs. Literal Meaning
This idiom does NOT mean 'to walk alone with one intention.' The literal breakdown is misleading; focus on the figurative meaning of stubborn independence.
Gold Rule
When to Use
Use this idiom when describing someone who refuses advice and acts solely based on their own judgment, often leading to negative outcomes.
Word Origin
From the classical Chinese text 'Han Feizi' (《韩非子》), where it describes a ruler who stubbornly adheres to their own decisions without heeding advisors. The phrase combines '一意' (single-minded) and '孤行' (to act alone).
Usage Notes
Commonly used in formal contexts to criticize leaders or individuals who refuse to listen to others. Avoid using in casual speech unless mimicking formal tone.