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Pharisaical for Dummies

adjective

pronunciation: ,færi'seɪɪkəl

What does Pharisaical really mean?

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Pharisaical is a word we use to describe someone who behaves in a hypocritical or self-righteous way. It comes from the word "Pharisee," which refers to a religious group from ancient Israel known for their strict adherence to religious laws and their strong belief in their own righteousness. So, when we say someone is acting Pharisaical, we mean that they are putting on an outward show of being righteous and moral, but deep down they might not truly believe in what they are saying or doing.

Imagine you have a classmate who always acts really nice and helpful whenever the teacher is around, but when the teacher turns their back, this classmate starts making fun of others or behaving in a mean way. Well, we could say that this classmate is being Pharisaical because they are pretending to be good when others are watching, but their true actions reveal that they are not genuinely kind or considerate.

Now, it's important to note that Pharisaical behavior isn't always obvious. Sometimes, people might not even realize they are behaving in a Pharisaical way. Let's take another example. Have you ever seen someone who constantly judges others and tells them what they should or shouldn't do? They act as if they are perfect and know what's best for everyone else. Well, this person might think they are just being helpful or giving good advice, but in reality, they are being Pharisaical by arrogantly assuming they are better than others.

So, when we use the word "Pharisaical," we are saying that someone is being hypocritical, pretending to be more righteous or better than they actually are. It's a word that helps us recognize when someone's actions don't match their true character or beliefs.

Revised and Fact checked by Elizabeth Martin on 2023-10-29 20:34:09

Pharisaical In a sentece

Learn how to use Pharisaical inside a sentece

  • John's father is always strict and strict when it comes to following rules and behaving properly. His father's behavior could be described as pharisaical.
  • Samantha's teacher always acts self-righteous and judgmental towards others, thinking she is better than everyone else. Her teacher's behavior is pharisaical.
  • At school, the principal expects everyone to follow the rules without exception and judges those who make even minor mistakes. The principal's strict behavior can be seen as pharisaical.
  • During the game, Peter constantly criticizes his teammates for small errors and belittles their efforts. His attitude can be described as pharisaical because he acts holier-than-thou.
  • In the debate club, Lucy often pretends to be morally superior to others and acts as if she has all the right answers. This kind of behavior is pharisaical as it displays hypocrisy.

Pharisaical Synonyms

Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.

Pharisaical Similar Words

Words that similar to the original word, but are not synonyms.