dogmatic
dog-MAT-ik
/dɒɡˈmæt.ɪk/
Inclinating to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true, without consideration of evidence or opinions of others.
Describes an assertive, arrogant style of insistence on rules or doctrines as unquestionable truth.
The story behind the word. In ancient Greece, 'dogma' was simply a thought, opinion, or official decree. As the Christian Church formalized its doctrines in the Middle Ages, 'dogma' became authoritative truth that could not be questioned, leading to 'dogmatic' as an epithet for absolute assertion.
Word relationships
- doctrinaire: Focuses on strict application of theoretical doctrine without practical flexibility.
- opinionated: Holding strong opinions, but less formal or authoritative than dogmatic.
- open-minded: Willing to consider new ideas and perspectives.
- flexible: Adaptable to changing circumstances or arguments.
Commonly confused with
- pragmatic: Pragmatic means guided by practical outcomes; dogmatic means guided rigidly by official doctrine.
Word family
- dogma (noun): A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.
- dogmatism (noun): The tendency to lay down principles as undeniably true.
- dogmatize (verb): To express opinions as facts.
Collocations
- dogmatic approach
- dogmatic insistence
- dogmatic belief
Example sentences
- "A truly scientific mind avoids dogmatic assertions and remains open to new empirical evidence." Scientific debate
- "His dogmatic approach to literary criticism left no room for alternative interpretations." Literary commentary
Memory hook
A DOGmatic person clings to their ideas like a dog holding a bone. My doctrine, no discussion.
When not to use
Do not use for someone who is simply confident; dogmatic implies refusal to accept debate or evidence.
Fun facts
- In medical history, the 'Dogmatists' were an ancient Greek school of physicians who favored theoretical principles over practical observation.
Related words
Explore more words
dogma, dogmatism, bigotry, unequivocal, absolutism, sectarian
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