preachy

/'pri:tʃi/

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Explanation of "Preachy"

Definition:
The word "preachy" is an adjective used to describe someone or something that tries to teach a lesson or give moral advice in a way that feels annoying or too much. It often refers to people who come across as overly moralistic or self-righteous.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "preachy" to describe a person, a speech, a book, a movie, or any situation where someone is giving advice or moral lessons in a way that feels excessive or unwelcome.
• It usually has a negative connotation, meaning it is used to express disapproval.

Examples:

1. Simple Example:
   "I found the movie really preachy; it kept telling me what I should believe."

2. More Complex Example:
   "Her preachy attitude during dinner made everyone uncomfortable because she kept lecturing us about healthy eating."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "preachy" can be used in discussions about literature or film criticism. When analyzing a work, one might say, "The author's preachy tone detracted from the overall enjoyment of the story."

Word Variants:

• Preach: The verb form of the word, which means to deliver a sermon or moral lesson.
• Preacher: A noun that refers to a person who preaches, especially in a religious context.

Different Meanings:

While "preachy" primarily refers to being moralistic, it can also describe situations where someone is excessively enthusiastic about sharing their beliefs, even if those beliefs are not necessarily moral.

Synonyms:

• Moralizing
• Didactic
• Pontifical
• Sententious

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "To preach to the choir": This idiom means to speak to people who already agree with you, making your message feel redundant.
• "Preach what you practice": This phrase suggests that one should live by the moral lessons they share with others.

Summary:

In summary, "preachy" is a word to describe someone who is overly moralistic in a way that can be tiresome or irritating.

Academic

Adjective

1. inclined to or marked by tedious moralization