What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pedantic
Example
The professor was so pedantic that he spent an entire lecture discussing the proper use of a comma. [pedantic: adjective]
Example
She can be quite pedantic when it comes to grammar and punctuation. [pedantic: adjective]
dogmatic
Example
He was so dogmatic in his political beliefs that he refused to even consider other perspectives. [dogmatic: adjective]
Example
Her dogmatic approach to religion made it difficult for her to have open-minded discussions with others. [dogmatic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dogmatic is more commonly used than pedantic in everyday language. Dogmatic is often used in discussions of religion, politics, or philosophy, while pedantic is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pedantic and dogmatic?
Both pedantic and dogmatic are associated with a negative connotation and are generally considered informal. However, pedantic may be more acceptable in formal writing or speech when discussing technical or academic subjects.