philistinism Definition
the attitudes or behavior of a person who is indifferent to culture and the arts, or who has no understanding of them.
Using philistinism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "philistinism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His philistinism was evident in his lack of interest in visiting museums or attending concerts.
Example
The school's emphasis on sports over the arts reflected a certain philistinism among the administration.
Example
Her philistinism was a source of frustration for her more cultured friends.
philistinism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for philistinism
- unculturedness
- unenlightenment
- anti-intellectualism
- narrow-mindedness
Antonyms for philistinism
- enlightenment
- intellectualism
- culturedness
Phrases with philistinism
a person who is indifferent to culture and the arts, or who has no understanding of them
Example
He was a philistine who thought that classical music was boring.
a preference for things that are considered vulgar or lacking in artistic merit
Example
Her philistine taste in movies meant that she preferred action films over foreign films.
an attitude that is dismissive of culture and the arts, or that shows no understanding of them
Example
His philistine attitude towards literature meant that he never read anything beyond the sports section of the newspaper.
Origins of philistinism
from German 'Philister', meaning 'a smug, conventional person'
Summary: philistinism in Brief
'Philistinism' [fi-luh-stahy-niz-uhm] refers to the attitudes or behavior of a person who is indifferent to culture and the arts, or who has no understanding of them. It is often used to describe a lack of appreciation for intellectual pursuits or artistic expression. Examples include 'His philistinism was evident in his lack of interest in visiting museums or attending concerts.' and 'The school's emphasis on sports over the arts reflected a certain philistinism among the administration.'
