Pharisaical

C2 16+

Pronunciation: /ˌfɛrəˈsaɪkəl/

Definitions of pharisaical

adjective relating to or characteristic of the Pharisees, a Jewish sect that emphasized strict interpretation and observance of the Mosaic law

Example Sentences

A1 She found his pharisaical attitude towards others off-putting.

A2 The teacher's pharisaical behavior made the students feel uncomfortable.

B1 The politician's pharisaical remarks were criticized by the public.

B2 Her pharisaical approach to charity work raised questions about her true intentions.

C1 The CEO's pharisaical leadership style alienated many employees.

C2 The author's pharisaical depiction of morality in his novel sparked intense debate among critics.

Examples of pharisaical in a Sentence

formal The pharisaical leaders were known for their strict adherence to religious laws.

informal Don't be so pharisaical about following the rules all the time.

slang Stop being such a pharisee about everything!

figurative Her pharisaical attitude towards others' behavior was off-putting.

Grammatical Forms of pharisaical

past tense

pharisaized

plural

pharisaicals

comparative

more pharisaical

superlative

most pharisaical

present tense

pharisaical

future tense

will be pharisaical

perfect tense

have been pharisaical

continuous tense

is being pharisaical

singular

pharisaical

positive degree

pharisaical

infinitive

to be pharisaical

gerund

pharisaically

participle

pharisaizing

Origin and Evolution of pharisaical

First Known Use: 0015 year
Language of Origin: Greek
Story behind the word: The word 'pharisaical' originates from the Greek word 'Pharisaios', referring to a member of an ancient Jewish sect known for strict observance of religious traditions and practices.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'pharisaical' has evolved to describe someone who is hypocritical or self-righteous in their religious or moral beliefs, moving away from its original association with the Pharisees of ancient Judaism.