fundamentalism

/,fʌndə'mentəlizm/

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Word: Fundamentalism

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition: Fundamentalism is a belief system where people interpret the sacred texts (like the Bible or the Quran) as literally true. This means they take every word in these texts at face value and believe that they should be followed exactly as written.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "fundamentalism" to describe a strict adherence to religious texts.
• It often refers to a movement within a religion that resists modern interpretations and changes.

Example:

• "The group was known for its fundamentalism, insisting that every word of their holy book must be followed without question."

Advanced Usage:

• Fundamentalism can also refer to similar strict beliefs in non-religious contexts, such as political or social ideologies. For instance, one might talk about "economic fundamentalism," where someone believes that free markets should operate without any government intervention.

Word Variants:

• Fundamentalist (noun/adjective): A person who follows fundamentalism, or describing someone or something that adheres to strict principles.
  • Example as a noun: "He is a fundamentalist who believes in the literal interpretation of religious texts."
  • Example as an adjective: "The fundamentalist approach to teaching left no room for discussion or debate."

Different Meanings:

• While "fundamentalism" primarily relates to religion, it can also be applied to other areas where strict, unchanging beliefs are held, such as in politics or education.

Synonyms:

• Extremism
• Literalism
• Strictness

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "fundamentalism," but you might hear phrases like "to stick to one's guns," which means to hold firm to one's beliefs despite opposition, similar to how fundamentalists may resist change.

Summary:

Fundamentalism is about interpreting sacred texts literally and holding fast to those interpretations.

Academic

Noun

1. the interpretation of every word in the sacred texts as literal truth