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Moralizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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moralizing

[ˈmɒrəlaɪzɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in a speech

To preach or teach a moral lesson, especially in a tedious or self-righteous way. It often involves criticizing others for their behavior.

Synonyms

chastise, lecture, preach, sermonize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
moralizing

Moralizing is used when someone is giving a judgmental commentary about what is right or wrong, often perceived as self-righteous or patronizing.

  • He spent the entire evening moralizing about the importance of family values.
  • Her moralizing attitude often frustrated her friends.
preach

Preach is generally used in religious contexts where a person is delivering a sermon. However, it can also mean advocating something emphatically, sometimes with a moral undertone.

  • The pastor preached about love and forgiveness during the Sunday service.
  • She always preaches the benefits of a healthy lifestyle to her friends.
lecture

Lecture is used in two contexts: as a formal educational talk to an audience or as an extended scolding/sermon. When used in the latter sense, it often carries a negative tone.

  • The professor gave a fascinating lecture on ancient Greek history.
  • After coming home late, Tim received a long lecture from his parents.
sermonize

Sermonize is used when someone is giving a long, tedious moralizing lecture, often unwelcome or condescending.

  • He tends to sermonize whenever the topic of ethics comes up.
  • Nobody appreciates it when she starts to sermonize on how to live a good life.
chastise

Chastise is used when someone is reprimanding or scolding another person harshly. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The coach chastised the players for their lack of effort during the game.
  • She was chastised by her boss for missing the deadline.

Examples of usage

  • He couldn't stop moralizing about the importance of honesty in his speech.
  • She tends to moralize about the virtues of hard work whenever someone is lazy.
  • Don't waste your time moralizing about other people's choices.
  • I don't appreciate you moralizing at me. I can make my own decisions.
  • Stop moralizing and just let people live their lives.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'moralizing'

The word 'moralizing' comes from the verb 'moralize', which originated in the late 14th century. It is derived from the Old French word 'moraliser', meaning 'to explain in a moral sense'. The concept of moralizing has been present in various cultures throughout history, often used as a tool for teaching ethical principles and values.

See also: amoral, demoralize, demoralized, immoral, immorality, immorally, moral, moralistic, morality, moralize, morally, morals.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,223, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.