Definition

Dogmatic is an adjective that describes someone who is rigid and uncompromising in their beliefs or opinions, and who is unwilling to consider alternative viewpoints.

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of Speech

Adjective

Synonyms

Opinionated, doctrinaire, inflexible, unbending, uncompromising

Antonyms

Open-minded, flexible, tolerant, adaptable, accommodating

Word Forms

Part of Speech Words
Noun dogmatisms, dogma, dogmatists, dogmatist, dogmatism, dogmas
Verb dogmatize, dogmatizing, dogmatizes, dogmatized, dogmatise
Adjective dogmatical, dogmatic
Adverb dogmatically

Example Sentences

  • He was so dogmatic in his political views that he refused to even consider the possibility that he might be wrong.

  • Her boss was very dogmatic and insisted that everything be done according to his exact specifications.

  • The new professor was widely regarded as being dogmatic and inflexible in his approach to teaching and research.

  • The religious leader’s dogmatic teachings were rejected by many in his congregation who preferred a more inclusive and open-minded approach to faith.

Usage

The word dogmatic is often used to describe people who are rigid and unyielding in their beliefs or opinions. This can apply to a wide range of contexts, including politics, religion, and personal beliefs. Someone who is dogmatic may be seen as closed-minded, intolerant, or unwilling to engage in constructive dialogue or debate.

The word dogmatic is derived from the Greek word “dogma,” which originally referred to authoritative teachings or opinions. Over time, the word has come to take on a more negative connotation, implying a rigid and inflexible adherence to a particular point of view.

The word dogmatic can be used with a variety of prefixes and suffixes to create related words with different shades of meaning. For example, the prefix “un-” can be added to create “undogmatic,” meaning not dogmatic or open-minded. The suffix “-ism” can be added to create “dogmatism,” meaning the tendency to be dogmatic or inflexible in one’s beliefs. Other related words include “dogmatist” and “dogmatize.”

It’s worth noting that the word dogmatic can have different connotations depending on the context in which it is used. In some cases, it may be used as a compliment to describe someone who is unwavering in their commitment to a particular set of beliefs or principles. In other cases, it may be used as a criticism to suggest that someone is closed-minded or unwilling to consider alternative viewpoints. As with any word, it’s important to consider the context in which it is used to fully understand its meaning and connotations.