toryism

A British politician discusses Toryism at a public meeting.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Political principles of the Tory party: "Toryism" refers to the political principles, policies, or ideology associated with the British Tory party, historically characterized by conservatism, support for the monarchy, the Church of England, and traditional social structures.
   • Conservative or reactionary attitudes: More broadly, "Toryism" can denote any set of beliefs that are highly conservative, favoring established institutions and opposing radical change.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • His political philosophy is deeply rooted in traditional Toryism. (His beliefs are based on the conservative principles of the British Tory party.)
  • The party's platform reflects a modern form of Toryism that emphasizes fiscal responsibility. (The party's policies align with conservative economic views.)
  • Critics accused him of embracing a reactionary Toryism that resisted social progress. (He was criticized for holding very conservative, backward-looking attitudes.)

Advanced Usage

• "High Toryism": A term for the most traditional, ultra-conservative wing of Toryism, often emphasizing monarchy and aristocracy.

  • The group's manifesto was a call for a return to High Toryism, opposing democratic reforms. (It advocated for extreme conservative values.)

• "One-nation Toryism": A more moderate, paternalistic form of Toryism that emphasizes social unity and gradual reform.

  • Disraeli's vision of One-nation Toryism sought to bridge class divides. (A conservative approach focused on national harmony.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tory (n): a member or supporter of the British Conservative Party.

  • She has been a lifelong Tory and votes conservative in every election. (She is a member of the Conservative Party.)

• Toryish (adj): having characteristics of Toryism; somewhat conservative.

  • His Toryish views on taxation were met with scepticism. (His views were moderately conservative.)

Synonyms

• Conservatism: a political philosophy that advocates tradition, limited government, and gradual change.
• Traditionalism: adherence to traditional customs, beliefs, or institutions.
• Reactionism: opposition to social or political change, often advocating a return to a previous state.

Related Idioms

• "True blue Tory": a loyal, unwavering supporter of the Conservative Party.

  • He is a true blue Tory, never wavering from party principles. (He is a steadfast conservative.)

• "Out of the Tory stable": belonging to or originating from the Conservative tradition.

  • Many of these policies come out of the Tory stable of ideas. (These policies derive from conservative ideology.)