variants also dogmatical
as in opinionated
given to or marked by the forceful expression of strongly held opinions a critic's dogmatic insistence that abstract expressionism is the only school of 20th century art worthy of serious study

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective dogmatic contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of dogmatic are dictatorial, doctrinaire, magisterial, and oracular. While all these words mean "imposing one's will or opinions on others," dogmatic implies being unduly and offensively positive in laying down principles and expressing opinions.

dogmatic about what is art and what is not

When is it sensible to use dictatorial instead of dogmatic?

The words dictatorial and dogmatic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dictatorial stresses autocratic, high-handed methods and a domineering manner.

exercised dictatorial control over the office

When is doctrinaire a more appropriate choice than dogmatic?

The words doctrinaire and dogmatic can be used in similar contexts, but doctrinaire implies a disposition to follow abstract theories in framing laws or policies affecting people.

a doctrinaire approach to improving the economy

Where would magisterial be a reasonable alternative to dogmatic?

The meanings of magisterial and dogmatic largely overlap; however, magisterial stresses assumption or use of prerogatives appropriate to a magistrate or schoolmaster in forcing acceptance of one's opinions.

the magisterial tone of his pronouncements

When might oracular be a better fit than dogmatic?

In some situations, the words oracular and dogmatic are roughly equivalent. However, oracular implies the manner of one who delivers opinions in cryptic phrases or with pompous dogmatism.

a designer who is the oracular voice of fashion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dogmatic Research has linked intellectual humility with many desirable behaviors, including considering others’ perspectives, being better at conflict resolution and being less dogmatic. Lauren Keating, Scientific American, 21 July 2025 In some people, some traits can be excessive; for example, someone of high integrity can turn into a dogmatic and rigid leader. Lila MacLellan, Fortune, 16 July 2025 Harvard is too hubristic, too fat and prosperous, too insular, too aloof, and too dogmatic to admit that it’s erred ... Brian T. Allen, National Review, 28 June 2025 Others warn that dogmatic students could replace one set of self-serving historical narratives – Sheikh Hasina’s version – with their own. Simon Montlake, Christian Science Monitor, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for dogmatic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dogmatic
Adjective
  • When opinionated classmate Arthur (Will Price) gripes about how inclusivity has bumped men like him out of the competitive academic ranks, Maggie is quick to clap back.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 29 Aug. 2025
  • Guenther, a longtime fixture of Milwaukee's bar scene, was known for his gruff, obstinate and opinionated temperament.
    Steven Martinez, jsonline.com, 19 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • As such, Mahomes evidently not only is immune to complacency but actually has become more adamant with success.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2025
  • After taking a year off to improve his health, Renfrow was adamant about playing for the Panthers.
    DIAMOND VENCES, Charlotte Observer, 3 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Mamdani’s budget-busting plans and doctrinaire leftwing advocacy would aggravate the city’s problems, not solve them.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 20 June 2025
  • Parts of the book were devoted to religious fantasy, the doctrinaire blindness of an age in which faith dominated every aspect of life.
    David Denby, New Yorker, 23 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dogmatic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dogmatic. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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