Didactic: meaning, definitions and examples

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didactic

 

[ daɪˈdæktɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

educational

intended to teach, particularly in a patronizing or moralistic way

Synonyms

educational, instructive, moralistic, pedagogical, preachy.

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Word Description / Examples
didactic

Used when describing something intended to teach, often with a focus on moral lessons or practical lessons. It can carry a slightly negative connotation if overused or perceived as overly instructive.

  • The fable had a didactic purpose, emphasizing the importance of honesty
  • His didactic tone was a bit overwhelming during the lecture
instructive

Used to describe something that is designed or intended to instruct or provide information or knowledge. It is typically neutral and practical.

  • The manual was very instructive and helped us set up the equipment quickly
  • His notes were highly instructive for understanding the complex theory
educational

Refers to something that provides knowledge or information, often in a formal or structured setting. It's widely applicable without negative connotations.

  • The documentary was highly educational and provided deep insights into the rainforest ecosystem
  • They attended an educational seminar on climate change
moralistic

Describes something that teaches or tries to teach a particular moral lesson, often seen as overly concerned with morality in a way that may be intrusive or judgmental. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The book had a moralistic tone that felt preachy and overbearing
  • His moralistic comments on lifestyle choices were not well-received
pedagogical

Relates to teaching and education methods, often used in professional or academic contexts to discuss strategies or theories of teaching. Generally neutral.

  • They discussed various pedagogical approaches to improve student engagement
  • The workshop focused on pedagogical techniques for modern classrooms
preachy

Usually describes a tone or manner that is annoyingly moralizing or given to moral preaching, often perceived negatively.

  • The article was so preachy that it turned many readers away
  • She complained that his emails were annoyingly preachy and condescending

Examples of usage

  • The book was full of didactic information on how to improve your vocabulary.
  • The teacher's didactic approach to history class often left students feeling bored.
  • His speeches were always didactic, aiming to educate the audience on important social issues.
  • The movie had a didactic message about the consequences of greed.
  • Despite his didactic tone, his lessons were always informative.

Translations

Translations of the word "didactic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 didático

🇮🇳 शैक्षिक

🇩🇪 didaktisch

🇮🇩 didaktik

🇺🇦 дидактичний

🇵🇱 dydaktyczny

🇯🇵 教訓的な (きょうくんてきな)

🇫🇷 didactique

🇪🇸 didáctico

🇹🇷 didaktik

🇰🇷 교훈적인 (gyohunjjeog-in)

🇸🇦 تعليمي

🇨🇿 didaktický

🇸🇰 didaktický

🇨🇳 教学的 (jiàoxué de)

🇸🇮 didaktičen

🇮🇸 kennslufræðilegur

🇰🇿 дидактикалық

🇬🇪 დიადაქტიკური

🇦🇿 didaktik

🇲🇽 didáctico

Etymology

The word 'didactic' comes from the Greek word 'didaktikos', meaning 'apt at teaching'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to refer to something that is intended to teach, often in a patronizing or moralistic manner. Didactic works can be found in literature, art, and education, aiming to impart knowledge or convey a particular moral lesson.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,451, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.