Definition

1. Noun:
   • Excessive concern with material or secular matters, often at the expense of spiritual or ethical considerations: The state of being absorbed in the affairs, pleasures, and values of the physical world.
   • Sophistication and experience in the ways of the world, often gained through travel, culture, or varied life experiences: The quality of being knowledgeable about and comfortable in different social and cultural situations.

Usage and Examples

• Noun (Concern with secular matters):

  • The monk renounced all worldliness to focus on his spiritual practice.
  • Her constant pursuit of wealth and status was a clear sign of her worldliness.

• Noun (Sophistication and experience):

  • His worldliness, gained from years of international diplomacy, made him an excellent host.
  • There was a charming worldliness in her conversation, reflecting her extensive travels.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "A certain worldliness": Often used to describe a desirable, polished sophistication.
  • The author's writing displays a certain worldliness that appeals to an international audience.
• Contrast with "spirituality" or "naivety": "Worldliness" is frequently discussed in contrast to these states.
  • The debate between worldliness and asceticism is a classic theme in religious texts.

Variants and Related Words

• Worldly (adj): Pertaining to or concerned with material values or ordinary life rather than spiritual affairs; also, experienced and sophisticated.
  • He has a very worldly perspective on business.
• Otherworldliness (n): The quality of being concerned with spiritual or intellectual matters rather than practical ones; the opposite of worldliness.
  • The painting evoked a sense of serene otherworldliness.

Synonyms

• Secularism: The principle of separation from religious institutions.
• Sophistication: The quality of being experienced and knowledgeable about complex subjects.
• Materialism: A tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values.

Antonyms

• Spirituality: The quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul.
• Asceticism: Severe self-discipline and avoidance of all forms of indulgence, typically for religious reasons.
• Naivety (or Naïveté): Lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "The ways of the world": The customs and practices of secular society, often associated with worldliness.
  • After years abroad, he became well-acquainted with the ways of the world.
• "Worldly-wise": Experienced and knowledgeable about the practical aspects of life.
  • Her worldly-wise advice helped the young graduate navigate his first job.

Noun

1. concern with worldly affairs to the neglect of spiritual needs
   • he disliked the worldliness of many bishops around him
2. the quality or character of being intellectually sophisticated and worldly through cultivation or experience or disillusionment