illiberalness

illiberalness

A person's illiberalness shows in their refusal to consider new ideas.

Definition

Illiberalness (noun): The quality or state of being illiberal, which means narrow-minded, not generous, or lacking in cultural breadth. It encompasses a lack of openness to new ideas, a tendency toward strictness or intolerance, and sometimes a lack of refinement or education.

Usage Examples
  • (His narrow-mindedness prevented open discussion.)
  • (Their lack of generosity in thought caused exclusion.)
  • (Her narrowness in taste showed a limited understanding.)
Advanced Usage
  • "illiberalness of spirit": A phrase used to describe a person's fundamental lack of generosity or tolerance.

    • The illiberalness of spirit in the community discouraged innovation. (The community's narrow-mindedness stifled new ideas.)
  • "illiberalness of mind": Referring to intellectual narrowness or prejudice.

    • His illiberalness of mind prevented him from appreciating modern literature. (His closed-mindedness kept him from enjoying contemporary works.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Illiberal (adj): Narrow-minded, not generous, or lacking in culture.

    • The illiberal policies restricted freedom of speech. (The policies were intolerant.)
  • Illiberality (n): The state or quality of being illiberal; synonymous with illiberalness but slightly more formal.

    • The illiberality of the law shocked reformers. (The law's narrowness was shocking.)
Synonyms
  • Narrow-mindedness: Lack of openness to different ideas or opinions.
  • Bigotry: Intolerance toward those who hold different opinions.
  • Provincialism: Limited or narrow outlook, often due to lack of exposure.
  • Stinginess: Lack of generosity (in a moral or intellectual sense).
Antonyms
  • Liberality: Openness, generosity, and broad-mindedness.
  • Tolerance: Willingness to accept different views or behaviors.
  • Cosmopolitanism: A global, inclusive outlook.
Related Idioms
  • "Close-mindedness": A common idiom meaning unwillingness to consider new ideas.

    • His close-mindedness was a form of illiberalness. (His refusal to listen was a narrow-minded trait.)
  • "Parochial attitude": A narrow, limited perspective, often associated with illiberalness.

    • The parochial attitude of the board showed illiberalness. (The board's limited view was narrow-minded.)