# dogmatic

/dɑɡˈmætɪk/ (US) · /dɒɡmˈætɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dogmatic
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

describing someone who believes their own ideas are always right and refuses to listen to other opinions. In medicine, it can also describe a treatment that is used without enough proof.

For teachers: characterised by an inflexible adherence to a set of beliefs or principles, often without room for doubt or alternative views. In a medical context, it refers to the use of a treatment based on tradition or authority rather than on scientific evidence.

## Examples

- He was too dogmatic to accept any new ideas.
- The doctor was criticized for his dogmatic approach to the patient's care, ignoring the latest research on the condition.
- While some argue that a certain level of dogmatism is necessary for effective leadership, in the field of medicine, such rigidity can lead to the rejection of life-saving innovations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.