# parochial

/pɝˈoʊkiəɫ/ (US) · /pæɹˈɒkɪəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parochial
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. narrow-minded

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

having a narrow mind and only caring about your own small town or group instead of the whole world.

For teachers: characterized by a narrow or limited scope; focused exclusively on local concerns to the detriment of a broader perspective.

- The council was criticized for its parochial view on the global climate crisis.
- The CEO warned that a parochial mindset would prevent the firm from competing effectively in the international marketplace.

Usage: Often carries a negative or derogatory tone when used to describe someone's attitude.

Teaching tip: In modern usage, this is most commonly used to criticize people who refuse to consider the 'big picture'.

### 2. relating to a parish

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

relating to a local church and the area it serves.

For teachers: pertaining to a parish, which is a small administrative district typically having its own church and priest.

- She spent many years working for the parochial school in her neighborhood.
- The bishop visited the village to discuss parochial boundaries and the maintenance of the medieval church building.

Usage: Commonly found in the phrase 'parochial school' in American English.

Teaching tip: While this is the original meaning, students will mostly encounter it in the context of religious education or church administration.

## Examples

- The committee's parochial views prevented them from seeing the bigger picture.
- Voters often reject parochial politics in favor of candidates who address national economic concerns.
- The university's shift toward a global curriculum was met with resistance from a parochial faculty board that prioritized traditional local history over international perspectives.

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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.