WordValedogmatic
asserting opinions as if unquestionable
In more detail
1. (adjective) inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true
2. (adjective) characterized by arrogant assertion of unproven principles
Examples
- 1. He took a dogmatic approach to religion, refusing to consider any other perspectives.
- 2. Her dogmatic insistence that she was right made it impossible to have a reasonable discussion.
How to use dogmatic
Dogmatic is typically used negatively to criticize someone who refuses to question their own beliefs or accept different perspectives. It implies stubbornness combined with an unwarranted confidence in the correctness of one's position. The term often appears in philosophical, political, or interpersonal contexts where flexibility and open dialogue are expected.
Common phrases
- dogmatic approach
- dogmatic views
- dogmatic assertions
- dogmatic stance
- overly dogmatic
Synonyms
authoritarian · dictatorial · rigid · inflexible · doctrinaire
Opposites
flexible · open-minded · pragmatic
Word family
dogmatism · dogmatist · dogmatically
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use dogmatic simply to mean 'firm in one's beliefs' without the critical implication of arrogance or refusing to listen; the word carries a distinctly disapproving tone.
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