parochial

IPA

Dictionary definition of parochial

Having a narrow-minded or limited perspective that is often associated with a particular locality or community.
"Her parochial education limited her perspective on the world."

Detailed meaning of parochial

A parochial viewpoint is one that is focused only on the immediate concerns or interests of a specific group or place, and which may lack awareness or appreciation for broader or more diverse perspectives. This term can also refer to a mindset that is resistant to change or new ideas, and is often used to criticize individuals or institutions that are perceived to be insular or inward-looking. In general, parochial attitudes can be seen as antithetical to a more open and inclusive approach that values diversity and global perspectives.

Example sentences of parochial

1. Her novel brilliantly captures the parochial life of the rural countryside.
2. Despite his parochial views, he has always been a good friend to me.
3. The restaurant served parochial dishes exclusive to the region.
4. His parochial mindset didn't understand the global impact of the issue.
5. The town council's parochial thinking was hindering progress.
6. The parochial nature of their village was comforting to some, limiting to others.

History and etymology of parochial

The adjective 'parochial' has its origins in the ecclesiastical and geographical context of medieval Europe. It is derived from the Old French word 'parochial,' which comes from the Latin 'parochialis,' meaning 'of a parish.' In the Middle Ages, parishes were local church communities responsible for the spiritual welfare of a specific region or locality. Over time, the term 'parochial' expanded beyond its religious connotations to describe individuals or perspectives that were narrowly focused on the concerns and interests of a particular locality or community. Thus, 'parochial' came to represent a limited or narrow-minded outlook that fails to consider broader perspectives, reflecting its historical association with the insular nature of parish life in medieval Europe.

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Further usage examples of parochial

1. As a journalist, she tried to move beyond her parochial upbringing.
2. They enjoyed the parochial charm of the small seaside town.
3. His ideas are considered too parochial to appeal to a wider audience.
4. The parochial school had a strong sense of community.
5. I longed for a more cosmopolitan lifestyle, away from this parochial town.
6. The community held parochial beliefs, resistant to outsiders and their customs.
7. We need to challenge our parochial attitudes in order to learn and grow.
8. The parochial nature of the debate is preventing any meaningful progress.
9. Despite his world travels, he still held onto parochial views.
10. Critics say the new policy reflects a parochial approach to the economy.
11. The professor challenged his students to break free from their parochial thinking.
12. Living in a multicultural city helped him to overcome his parochial attitudes.
13. Her music draws from the parochial rhythms and traditions of her homeland.
14. His parochial views on technology hindered his career in the global market.
15. The parochial mindset of the town's leaders stifled progress.
16. Her parochial upbringing limited her understanding of diverse cultures.
17. The company's parochial policies impeded innovation and growth.
18. Parochial attitudes can be a barrier to embracing new ideas.
19. Breaking free from parochial thinking is essential for personal growth.
20. The school's curriculum lacked diversity, reflecting a parochial mindset.
21. Parochialism can isolate communities from the broader world.
22. Overcoming parochial prejudices requires open-mindedness.
23. Globalization challenges parochial perspectives on trade and culture.
24. Their parochial outlook made it hard for them to adapt to urban life.