Paternalistic

usgb/pəˌtɜːrnəˈlɪstɪk/
adjective

Behaving in a way that shows you know what is best for others, similar to how a father guides his child.

The company's paternalistic attitude towards its employees is often criticized.
Visual representation of "paternalistic" - Behaving in a way that shows you know what is best for others, similar to how a father guides his child

Often appears as...

  • paternalistic attitude
  • paternalistic approach

Usage tips

Disapproving

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "paternalistic"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Condescending Tone

Using 'paternalistic' can imply that someone is talking down to others, as though they're children.

Illustration for Condescending Tone
His paternalistic tone made the staff feel undervalued.
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Implicit Control

The word often suggests someone is imposing their will or decisions on others, even if they believe it's for the other's benefit.

Illustration for Implicit Control
The manager's paternalistic decision didn't allow any room for debate.
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Cultural Sensitivity

'Paternalistic' can be seen as a negative judgment of certain cultural norms, so use it cautiously.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
A paternalistic approach in a culturally diverse workplace can cause friction.
Word comparison image

Compare with

authoritarianbossycondescendcontroldomineerfatheroverprotectivepatriarchal
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Visual representation of the word "Paternalistic"

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