Set in their opinions 🔒🧠
Meaning
To be unwilling to change one's beliefs or views, even when presented with new information or evidence.
Origin
The image is quite literal: imagine a sculptor meticulously carving a statue, not in soft clay, but in hard stone. Once the chisel has made its mark and the form is defined, it's incredibly difficult to alter. This is the essence of being 'set in one's opinions.' The phrase likely emerged during a time when crafting and artistry were highly valued, emphasizing the permanence and unyielding nature of a well-formed, though perhaps rigid, idea. Think of a craftsman's hands, skilled and deliberate, making decisions that can't easily be undone. This unshakeable resolve, for better or worse, became a metaphor for intellectual inflexibility.
Set in their opinions represented with emoji🔒🧠
This playful assembly of icons functions as a whimsical prompt, inviting a dialogue on the stubbornness of conviction. Note how the locked brain not only represents a closed mind but also suggests the internal struggle to remain steadfast, even when faced with overwhelming new perspectives. It's a charming reminder that sometimes, our most cherished ideas can create their own prisons.
Examples
- He's set in his opinions about politics and refuses to listen to other viewpoints.
- Despite the scientific evidence, the community remained set in their opinions regarding the old folktales.
- The old wizard was quite set in his opinions about the proper way to brew a potion, scoffing at newer ingredients.
- My cat is firmly set in her opinions about the ideal time for breakfast, no matter what the clock says.
Frequently asked questions
Not necessarily; while it often implies stubbornness, being set in one's opinions can also signify strong convictions, loyalty to one's values, or steadfastness in the face of pressure. The context often determines whether it's viewed as a vice or a virtue.
The opposite of being 'set in their opinions' is often described as being open-minded, flexible, or adaptable. Someone adaptable is willing to consider new ideas and change their views when presented with compelling evidence.
Absolutely; it's quite common for individuals to be deeply entrenched in their views on specific subjects, such as politics or religion, while remaining relatively open to changing their minds on less significant matters. This specificity highlights that inflexibility isn't always all-encompassing.
Yes, 'set in their opinions' is widely considered an idiom, as its meaning is figurative and cannot be deduced directly from the individual words. Its common usage and metaphorical application solidify its idiomatic status.