Definition

Noun: 1. A sermon or discourse on a moral or religious topic: A speech or piece of writing that earnestly tries to teach a moral or religious lesson, often in a way that is perceived as tedious, self-righteous, or overly long. - The lecture turned into a tiresome preachment about civic duty. 2. (Often derogatory) Moralizing talk; a tedious lecture: Language that instructs or advises about proper behavior in a manner considered pompous, dogmatic, or annoying. - We were hoping for a discussion, but all we got was a political preachment.

Usage

• Typical Context: The word "preachment" is often used critically or negatively. It implies that the speaker is delivering moral advice in a way that is unwelcome, boring, or self-important.
• Grammar: Used as a countable noun. It is typically preceded by an article ("a", "the") or a possessive pronoun ("his", "her").
• Common Collocations: , , , .

Examples

• The manager's weekly meeting was less a briefing and more a preachment on company loyalty.
• She dismissed his advice as mere preachment from someone who didn't understand her situation.
• His articles have moved from analysis to simple preachment.

Advanced Usage

• "To be given/treated to a preachment": To be subjected to a lengthy moral lecture.
  • Every time I visit, I'm treated to a preachment about my life choices.
• Used to critique the style of communication rather than the content itself. The moral lesson may be valid, but the word "preachment" criticizes the manner of its delivery.

Variants and Related Words

• Preach (verb): To deliver a sermon or to advocate for a moral principle earnestly.
  • He preaches tolerance and understanding.
• Preacher (noun): A person who preaches, especially a member of the clergy.
  • The preacher gave a powerful sermon.
• Preachy (adjective): Inclined to or characterized by moralizing lecture in a tedious way.
  • The film's message was good, but its delivery was a bit preachy.

Synonyms

• Sermon: A talk on a religious or moral subject, especially one given during a religious service. (Can be neutral; "preachment" often implies the negative aspects of a sermon.)
• Homily: A religious discourse that is intended primarily for spiritual edification rather than doctrinal instruction; can also mean a tedious moral lecture.
• Lecture: A long, serious speech, especially one given as a scolding or reprimand.
• Diatribe: A forceful and bitter verbal attack or criticism; differs as it is more about angry criticism than moral instruction.
• Harangue: A lengthy and aggressive speech.
• Moralizing: The act of commenting on moral issues, especially in a self-righteous or tedious way.

Antonyms

• Dialogue: A conversation between two or more people.
• Discussion: The action or process of talking about something to exchange ideas or decide something.

Idioms and Phrases

• "Practice what you preach": This common idiom uses the related verb "preach." It means you should behave in the way you advise others to behave. "Preachment" could be used to describe the "preaching" part that is not being practiced.
  • His preachment about honesty rang hollow since he was known to cut corners.

Noun

1. a sermon on a moral or religious topic