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parochialism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /pəˈroʊkɪəlɪzəm/

KK: /pəˈroʊkɪəlɪzəm/

noun
Definition

The quality of being narrow-minded or limited in scope, often focusing only on local or trivial matters rather than broader issues.


Example

His parochialism prevented him from understanding the global implications of the local policy.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how some people can be so full of parochialism?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s frustrating when they only see things from their own perspective.
Sloth A
Exactly! It makes discussions feel so limited and unproductive.
Sloth B
Totally agree, we need more open-mindedness in conversations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
narrowness
provincialism
insularity
Antonyms
broad-mindedness
liberality
open-mindedness
Root Explanation

Parochialism is formed from "parochialis" (from Latin, meaning of a parish) and the suffix "-ism" (meaning a practice or belief). The term refers to a focus on local or narrow interests, often at the expense of broader perspectives.

Memory Tip

Think of 'parish' which relates to a local community, and '-ism' indicating a belief or practice. This helps you remember that parochialism means having a narrow or local viewpoint.

Visually Confused Words
presocialism
partialism
provincialism
procapitalism
archaism
abranchialism
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