Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Unwilling to consider new ideas or opinions; having a mind closed to new arguments or information. This describes a person who is not receptive to different perspectives or change. It implies a fixed, often rigid, way of thinking.

Usage

• The adjective "close-minded" is used to describe a person, attitude, or approach.
• It is typically used in a critical or negative context to indicate a lack of openness.
• It can be used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like "is" or "seems").

Examples

• Attributive use (before a noun):
  • His close-minded attitude prevented any productive discussion.
  • We need to avoid close-minded policies that stifle innovation.
• Predicative use (after a linking verb):
  • She is too close-minded to listen to alternative solutions.
  • If you refuse to read the evidence, you are being close-minded.

Advanced Usage

• "to be close-minded about something": This specifies the topic or area where someone is unwilling to consider new ideas.
  • He is surprisingly close-minded about modern art.
• The term is often used in debates about science, politics, or social issues to criticize an unwillingness to engage with opposing evidence or viewpoints.

Variants and Related Words

• Closed-minded: This is a common variant spelling with identical meaning and usage.
  • The closed-minded committee rejected the proposal without review.
• Narrow-minded (adj): Similar in meaning, often emphasizing limited scope or intolerance.
• Intolerant (adj): Unwilling to accept beliefs or behaviors different from one's own.
• Dogmatic (adj): Asserting opinions in an arrogant manner; not open to debate.

Synonyms

• Unreceptive: Not willing to consider or accept new suggestions or ideas.
• Inflexible: Unwilling to change or compromise.
• Hidebound: Unwilling or unable to change because of tradition or convention.

Antonyms

• Open-minded: Willing to consider new ideas; unprejudiced.
• Receptive: Willing to consider or accept new suggestions and ideas.
• Broad-minded: Tolerant or liberal in one's views and reactions.

Adjective

1. not ready to receive to new ideas