obscurantism

[əbˈskjʊərəntɪzəm]

obscurantism Definition

the practice of deliberately making things obscure or difficult to understand, especially in order to prevent people from finding out the truth.

Using obscurantism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obscurantism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The government's use of obscurantism made it difficult for the public to understand the true nature of the crisis.

  • Example

    The author's writing style was criticized for its obscurantism.

  • Example

    The company's financial reports were filled with obscurantist language.

obscurantism Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for obscurantism

Phrases with obscurantism

  • the use of scientific language and concepts to make something seem more complex than it really is, often to hide flaws or inaccuracies

    Example

    The company's use of scientific obscurantism made it difficult for regulators to detect the safety issues with their products.

  • the practice of using religious doctrine to justify ignorance or opposition to scientific knowledge or progress

    Example

    The school's curriculum was criticized for promoting religious obscurantism by teaching creationism instead of evolution.

  • the use of political rhetoric or propaganda to obscure or distort the truth, often to maintain power or control

    Example

    The government's use of political obscurantism made it difficult for the opposition party to gain support from the public.

Origins of obscurantism

from French 'obscurantisme', from 'obscurant' (adjective), from Latin 'obscurans', present participle of 'obscurare', meaning 'to darken, obscure'

📌

Summary: obscurantism in Brief

The term 'obscurantism' [əbˈskjʊərəntɪzəm] refers to the practice of deliberately making things obscure or difficult to understand, especially in order to prevent people from finding out the truth. It can be seen in various contexts such as politics, religion, and science, and is often criticized for hindering progress and transparency. Examples include 'The government's use of obscurantism made it difficult for the public to understand the true nature of the crisis.' and 'The author's writing style was criticized for its obscurantism.'