sheeplike
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Resembling a sheep in behavior: Exhibiting qualities stereotypically associated with sheep, such as docility, meekness, timidity, or a lack of independent thought or initiative. - Suggestive of unthinking conformity: Behaving in a passive, unquestioning, or easily led manner, often within a group.
Usage
The adjective "sheeplike" is used to describe a person's behavior or a group's collective action. It is almost always used in a negative or critical sense to imply a lack of individuality, courage, or critical thinking. It modifies a noun directly or follows a linking verb.
Examples
- The protesters followed the leader in a sheeplike manner, without asking any questions about their destination.
- He criticized the sheeplike obedience of the employees to every new, poorly conceived policy.
- The crowd moved with a sheeplike uniformity, everyone buying the same product because others were doing it.
- Their acceptance of the flawed argument was sadly sheeplike.
Advanced Usage
- Used in social and political commentary: The term is frequently employed in critiques of mass behavior, consumerism, or political compliance.
- The commentator warned against sheeplike adherence to party dogma without personal scrutiny.
Variants and Related Words
- Sheeple (noun, informal, often derogatory): A portmanteau of "sheep" and "people," referring to people who are docile, compliant, or easily manipulated.
- The conspiracy theorist claimed the media was controlling the sheeple.
Synonyms
- Docile: Ready to accept control or instruction; submissive.
- Meek: Quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive.
- Submissive: Meekly obedient or passive.
- Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules readily.
- Conformist: A person who conforms to accepted behavior or established practices. (Note: This is typically a noun, but the behavior can be described as conformist.)
Antonyms
- Independent: Free from outside control; not depending on another's authority.
- Assertive: Having or showing a confident and forceful personality.
- Strong-willed: Determined to do as one wants even if other people advise against it.
- Rebellious: Showing a desire to resist authority, control, or convention.
Adjective
- like or suggestive of a sheep in docility or stupidity or meekness or timidity