didactic
dy-DAK-tik
/daɪˈdæktɪk/
Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
Often used negatively to describe someone who is 'preachy' or teaches in a way that is too patronizing or heavy-handed.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'didaskein', meaning 'to teach'. In ancient literature, didactic poetry was a genre intended to provide instruction on subjects like agriculture or morality, rather than just to entertain.
Word relationships
- edifying: Edifying is always positive, meaning it builds character; didactic can be annoying or overly formal.
Word family
- didacticism (noun): The practice of being didactic.
Collocations
- didactic tone
- didactic literature
- didactic method
Example sentences
- "The didactic purpose of the fable was to warn children against the dangers of vanity." Describing a fable or story.
Memory hook
Think of a 'Dictator' who is 'Didactic'. They both tell you exactly what to do and think. Teaching with a moral.
When not to use
Don't use it as a simple synonym for 'educational' unless you want to imply a sense of moralizing or strictness.
Fun facts
- While now often a criticism, in the 18th century, being a 'didactic poet' was considered a prestigious and noble calling.
Explore more words
dictate, patronizing, educate, condescending, catechize, prescriptive
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