Dogmatic

hardNegative tone

dog-MAT-ik

adjective

Definition

Inclined to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true

Memory hook

DOG-matic: like a stubborn DOG that won't let go of its bone - clinging rigidly to beliefs.

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Word roots

dogmaopinion, decree(Greek)

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Examples

His dogmatic approach left no room for alternative viewpoints.
The professor's dogmatic teaching style frustrated creative students.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

His ______ approach left no room for alternative viewpoints.
Show answer

dogmatic

Synonyms

doctrinaireopinionatedauthoritarianinflexible

Antonyms

open-mindedflexibletolerantreceptive

Categories

View all Rigidity words

GRE Tip

Dogmatic is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "doctrinaire" or "opinionated" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "open-minded".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

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