casuistical

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The word "casuistical" is an adjective that relates to the way we use ethical principles to solve moral problems. It often describes a method of reasoning that looks closely at specific cases to figure out what is right or wrong in complex situations.

Simple Explanation:

• Casuistical comes from "casuistry," which is a way of thinking that analyzes particular situations instead of applying general rules.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "casuistical" to describe someone's reasoning or arguments when they focus on details of specific situations rather than broad principles.

Example:

• "The lawyer’s casuistical approach helped him find a loophole in the law that benefited his client."

Advanced Usage:

• In more formal discussions, "casuistical" might refer to arguments that are overly complicated or subtle. People might use it to criticize reasoning that seems to twist facts or principles just to support a particular view.

Word Variants:

• Casuist (noun): A person who uses casuistry or engages in casuistical reasoning.
• Casuistry (noun): The practice of resolving moral problems by applying theoretical ethical principles to specific cases.

Different Meanings:

• While "casuistical" primarily deals with ethics and moral reasoning, it's important to note that it can sometimes have a negative connotation, suggesting that the reasoning is overly intricate or evasive.

Synonyms:

• Ethical reasoning
• Moral reasoning
• Subtle reasoning
• Sophistical (in some contexts)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no widely used idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "casuistical," but you might encounter phrases like "split hairs," which means to make fine or overly meticulous distinctions, similar to what casuistical reasoning might involve.

Summary:

In summary, "casuistical" describes a way of thinking that focuses on specific cases to solve ethical dilemmas.

Academic

Adjective

1. of or relating to the use of ethical principles to resolve moral problems
2. of or relating to or practicing casuistry
   • overly subtle casuistic reasoning

Synonyms

• casuistic