Moralistic: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is overly concerned with morals, often in a way that seems preachy or self-righteous.

• She has a moralistic view on everything, always explaining what she thinks is right or wrong.

When someone is quick to make harsh judgments about others, often without understanding the full situation. This term often carries a negative connotation.

• He is very judgmental about people who dress differently.

When someone talks in a way that shows they are trying to give moral advice unnecessarily or excessively. This can be off-putting to others.

• Her speech became a bit preachy, and the audience started to lose interest.

When someone believes they are morally superior to others, often in a way that is annoying or hypocritical. This term has a negative connotation.

• His self-righteous attitude made it hard for others to have a conversation with him.

Best used when describing someone who is overly concerned with morals, often implying they are preachy or self-righteous. This term often has a negative connotation.

• Her moralistic attitude made her unpopular among her friends.
• The film was criticized for being too moralistic and lacking in subtlety.

Appropriate when referring to something intended to teach, especially in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive. It can describe literature, art, or any form of communication meant to instruct.

• The novel's didactic nature was evident, as it included many lessons about kindness and empathy.
• The professor's lectures were highly didactic, focusing on the moral implications of historical events.

Used when discussing someone who comments on or offers opinions about moral issues, usually in a way that feels intrusive or annoying. This term generally carries a negative nuance.

• He was always moralizing about people's lifestyle choices, which made him hard to get along with.
• Her moralizing tone turned the conversation into a sermon.

Fits best when describing someone overly concerned with minor details or rules, especially in terms of academic learning. Often negative, it suggests that the person is being nitpicky or showing off their knowledge.

• His pedantic approach to grammar corrections made him unpopular in the writing group.
• She often came across as pedantic, focusing on the smallest errors in others' work.