"Doctrinarian" is a term used to describe someone who adheres strictly to a particular doctrine, often to the point of inflexibility or dogmatism. The spelling of this word is fairly straightforward: it is pronounced /dɑktrɪˈnɛriən/. The stress falls on the third syllable, and there are no particularly tricky or irregular spellings to contend with. Nonetheless, it can be a challenging word to spell for those who are not used to its somewhat unusual construction.
Doctrinarian, noun
A doctrinarian refers to an individual who adheres rigidly and uncompromisingly to a particular set of principles, theories, or doctrines, especially in a dogmatic and inflexible manner. It is derived from the word "doctrine," which refers to a set of beliefs or principles, often related to religious, philosophical, or political ideologies.
Typically, a doctrinarian is someone who strictly and fervently advocates for a particular ideology without considering alternative perspectives or entertaining opposing viewpoints. They tend to be unwavering in their adherence to their chosen doctrine and often reject or dismiss ideas that deviate from their well-established principles. Consequently, a doctrinarian may exhibit a dismissive or condescending attitude towards those who question or challenge their beliefs.
The term can be used in various contexts, including politics, religion, and academia, to describe individuals who exhibit an excessive attachment to their principles and display an unwillingness to consider alternative perspectives. A doctrinarian may prioritize the preservation of their ideology over practical considerations, compromising their ability to reason objectively or adapt to changing circumstances.
In conclusion, a doctrinarian is a person who rigidly adheres to a specific set of principles, theories, or doctrines and is resistant to considering alternative viewpoints or ideas. They often emphasize dogmatic adherence to their established beliefs, leading to inflexibility and an unwillingness to engage in open-minded discussion or intellectual flexibility.
The word "doctrinarian" is derived from the French word "doctrinaire", which in turn came from the Latin word "doctrina" meaning "teaching" or "instruction". The term "doctrinaire" was first used in the 19th century to describe a person devoted to a particular doctrine or set of principles, especially in politics. It implies a strict adherence to a specific ideology or dogma, often lacking flexibility.