Doctrinaire

usgb/ˌdɑːktrɪˈner/
adjective

A person who seeks to impose a doctrine without taking into account practical considerations.

He is considered a doctrinaire by many due to his strict adherence to his political beliefs, regardless of the views of others.
Visual representation of "doctrinaire" - A person who seeks to impose a doctrine without taking into account practical considerations.

Often appears as...

  • doctrinaire approach
  • doctrinaire theory

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "doctrinaire"
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Not Pragmatic

Used to describe someone who favors theoretical principles over practicality in real-life situations.

Illustration for Not Pragmatic
Her doctrinaire approach to education reform ignores the limitations of the school's budget.
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Often Negative

Carries a negative connotation, suggesting stubbornness and lack of flexibility.

Illustration for Often Negative
The manager's doctrinaire methods led to conflicts with the team.
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Political Context

Frequently used in political or ideological discussions to critique opponents.

Illustration for Political Context
The senator was dismissed as a doctrinaire who couldn't compromise.
Word comparison image

Compare with

adamantauthoritariandogmaticinflexibleintolerantopinionatedrigiduncompromising
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Visual representation of the word "Doctrinaire"

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