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Paternalistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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paternalistic

 

[ pəˌtəːn(ə)ˈlɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Showing a fatherly care or concern, especially by providing for the needs of others in a way that limits their freedom or autonomy.

Synonyms

authoritarian, domineering, protective

Examples of usage

  • He had a paternalistic attitude towards his employees, making decisions for them without consulting them.
  • The company's paternalistic policies included offering on-site childcare and health benefits, but also strict rules and regulations.
Context #2 | Adjective

government

A system or policy of governing or managing in a fatherly manner, especially by providing for the needs of the people but not giving them full rights or responsibilities.

Synonyms

benevolent, nanny state, overprotective

Examples of usage

  • The government's paternalistic approach led to criticism for treating citizens like children rather than equal citizens.
  • Some argue that paternalistic governments can be beneficial in certain situations, such as in providing social welfare programs.

Translations

Translations of the word "paternalistic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paternalista

🇮🇳 पैतृकवादी

🇩🇪 paternalistisch

🇮🇩 paternalistik

🇺🇦 патріархальний

🇵🇱 patriarchalny

🇯🇵 家父長主義の (かふちょうしゅぎの)

🇫🇷 paternaliste

🇪🇸 paternalista

🇹🇷 paternalist

🇰🇷 가부장적인 (gabujangjeog-in)

🇸🇦 أبوي (abawi)

🇨🇿 paternalistický

🇸🇰 paternalistický

🇨🇳 家长式的 (jiāzhǎng shì de)

🇸🇮 patriarhalen

🇮🇸 föðurlegur

🇰🇿 патриярхаттық

🇬🇪 მამაკაცური

🇦🇿 atalıq

🇲🇽 paternalista

Etymology

The term 'paternalistic' originates from the Latin word 'pater' meaning father. It first emerged in the mid-19th century to describe a form of behavior or governance that resembles that of a father figure, providing for the needs of others while restricting their autonomy. The concept has been widely discussed in various fields, from psychology to politics, highlighting the complex dynamics of care and control.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,953, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.