close-mindedness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close-mindedness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of willingness to consider new ideas or viewpoints. Example: "His close-mindedness prevented him from seeing the benefits of the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"Europeans don't have the" -- Webber pauses -- "close-mindedness Americans have.

The New York Times - Magazine

"There were so many unemployed people, and it was creating an atmosphere of intolerance and close-mindedness," Ms. Hernandez said.

The New York Times

Heine had been bitter in his criticism of the officious close-mindedness of German society and spent much of his life in France, delivering his sarcastic barbs from exile.

The New York Times

The report said this close-mindedness was most evident in the cases of high-strength aluminum tubes, which the agency believed Iraq was trying to acquire to use as centrifuges to enrich uranium -- a prerequisite for developing nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

That breadth of coverage suggests that not only is the general public getting savvier about country radio's homogeneous output and its issues with songs sung by women, but also that the perceived close-mindedness of country music listeners is becoming reliable click-bait.

The Guardian - Music

Accusations of bias and close-mindedness, however, call into question the objectivity of evolutionists in the public consciousness.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Religion shouldn't be an excuse for intolerance and our laws need to stop making excuses for this kind of close mindedness.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Closed-mindedness," they said.

The New York Times

I find the closed-mindedness of xenophobes bewildering as well as upsetting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

While absolutism and closed-mindedness may be balms for insecurity, they are not healthy prescriptions for a democracy.

The New York Times

There are many millions of devout Christians, Muslims and others, however, who reject such closed-mindedness and seek to make religion a bridge instead of a barrier.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex social issues, avoid broad generalizations that attribute "close-mindedness" to entire groups. Instead, focus on specific behaviors or attitudes.

Common error

Avoid using "close-mindedness" as a dismissive label in heated arguments. This can shut down constructive dialogue and reinforce opposing viewpoints. Instead, try to understand the other person's perspective and find common ground.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "close-mindedness" is that of a noun. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state or characteristic. Ludwig shows examples where it is used to express criticism or analysis of a particular attitude.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

15%

Science

31%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "close-mindedness" is a common noun that describes the characteristic of being unwilling to consider new ideas or perspectives. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in neutral contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using "close-mindedness", avoid generalizations and focus on specific behaviors, and refrain from using it as a dismissive label in arguments. Alternatives such as "narrow-mindedness" or "inflexibility" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey. Understanding its nuances and potential impact can lead to more constructive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

narrow-mindedness

A common synonym indicating a limited perspective and unwillingness to consider other viewpoints.

intellectual inflexibility

Highlights the resistance to changing one's understanding or beliefs based on new information.

inflexibility of mind

Emphasizes the rigidity and unwillingness to change one's thinking.

rigidity of thought

Emphasizes the lack of flexibility and adaptability in one's thinking.

resistance to new ideas

Highlights the active opposition to accepting novel concepts.

lack of receptiveness

Indicates a general unwillingness to accept new information or perspectives.

dogmatism

Focuses on the assertion of opinions as undeniable truths.

intolerance of opposing views

Stresses the rejection of viewpoints that differ from one's own.

prejudice

Highlights preconceived judgments or biases that hinder open-mindedness.

confirmation bias

Focuses on the tendency to seek out information that confirms existing beliefs, ignoring contradictory evidence.

FAQs

How to use "close-mindedness" in a sentence?

You can use "close-mindedness" to describe a person's unwillingness to consider different viewpoints. For example, "His "close-mindedness" prevented him from understanding the benefits of the new policy."

What can I say instead of "close-mindedness"?

You can use alternatives like "narrow-mindedness", "inflexibility", or "intolerance" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "close-mindedness" or "closed-mindedness"?

"Close-mindedness" is the more common and accepted spelling. "Closed-mindedness" is also understandable but less frequently used.

What's the difference between "close-mindedness" and "stubbornness"?

"Close-mindedness" refers to an unwillingness to consider new ideas or perspectives, while "stubbornness" refers to a refusal to change one's mind or course of action, even in the face of evidence or persuasion. Stubbornness is about holding firm to a position; close-mindedness is about not being open to new information.