sanctimonious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sanctimonious" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who makes a show of being morally superior to others, often in a hypocritical way. Example: "His sanctimonious attitude during the debate made it difficult for others to take him seriously."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Newcastle's fans have suffered enough this season; they don't need it ended with a sanctimonious lecture.

The Guardian - Sport

What do you say to those non-smokers who are particularly sanctimonious about your habit?

The Guardian - Arts

His drawled explanation of his modus operandi – "alllll the pieces matter" – is obviously meant to double as a description of The Wire's jigsaw-puzzle writing style, and in retrospect seems a little heavy handed and sanctimonious – the show's least appealing quality.

The Guardian

On one side stands an industry that has lied more consistently about the effects of its product than any other; facing it is a motley alliance of lawyers, sanctimonious politicians and, finally, the smokers themselves, many of whom would have us believe that, despite a quarter century of negative publicity about nicotine, they had no idea that cigarettes might do them some harm.

The Economist

The British press at its worst is intrusive, sanctimonious and spiteful.

The Economist

So they don't worry about it as much, and are repelled by politicians who wax sanctimonious about it.I really don't know the answer, so I'll have to read the book.

The Economist

He lambasted the prying members of the assembly as "sanctimonious hypocrites", and, on the night Mr Jasper resigned, declared that he would "bet my own life that they will clear Lee Jasper, and I will reappoint him when they do".

The Economist

We are not going to allow our public servants to be held to saint-like standards by a bunch of hypocrites.William MillerNew YorkSIR—I am sick of sanctimonious commentators telling me that Mr Clinton in his private life has allegedly broken some unspoken bargain with the American people.

The Economist

"Keep Portland sanctimonious," mumble a few contrarians, while others savour the irony that Portland had to steal the slogan from Austin, Texas.

The Economist

And least of all Sarah Solomon, 72, a Lincoln investor, who at his trial stood on tiptoe to seize him by the lapels and shout, into that craggy and sanctimonious face, "Mr Keating, what happened to my money?

The Economist

ONE reason that Angelenos like the privacy of their cars is that they can smoke in them without the sanctimonious disapproval of their neighbours.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "sanctimonious", ensure that the context clearly supports the implication of hypocrisy or insincere moral superiority. Overuse can weaken your argument.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone as "sanctimonious" simply because they express strong moral or religious beliefs. True sanctimony involves a performative aspect, where the individual's actions contradict their stated values.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "sanctimonious" primarily functions as a descriptive modifier. It characterizes a noun (typically a person or their behavior) as exhibiting a hypocritical or insincere display of moral superiority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is typically used to describe someone who makes a show of being morally superior to others, often in a hypocritical way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective "sanctimonious" is a common term used to describe someone who makes a show of being morally better than others, often in a hypocritical way. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct grammatical status and negative connotation. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts. While other similar terms exist such as "self-righteous" or "holier-than-thou", it’s important to be precise when implying such behavior and to avoid mislabeling genuine piety as sanctimony. Ludwig provides numerous examples of the word in context, helping writers to understand its nuances and apply it effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-righteous

Implies a strong conviction in one's own righteousness, often to the point of being annoying or offensive.

holier-than-thou

Suggests an attitude of moral superiority, often implying that others are inferior.

pietistic

Focuses on outward displays of religious devotion, sometimes insincerely.

pharisaical

Highlights hypocrisy and strict adherence to rules without genuine morality.

moralizing

Describes someone who frequently gives moral advice, often unsolicited.

preachy

Indicates a tendency to lecture others on moral issues in a tiresome way.

pious

Refers to someone deeply religious, but can imply insincerity when used critically.

moralistic

Emphasizes adherence to a strict moral code, potentially without empathy or understanding.

superior

Suggests a general feeling of being better than others, including morally.

judgmental

Indicates a tendency to form negative opinions about others' behavior or character.

FAQs

How can I use "sanctimonious" in a sentence?

"Sanctimonious" is typically used to describe someone who makes a show of being morally superior to others, often hypocritically. For example: "His "sanctimonious" attitude during the debate alienated many voters."

What are some synonyms for "sanctimonious"?

Alternatives to "sanctimonious" include "self-righteous", "holier-than-thou", and "pharisaical". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "pious" and "sanctimonious"?

"Pious" generally describes someone who is genuinely devout and religious. "Sanctimonious", on the other hand, suggests a showy or hypocritical display of piety; it implies insincerity.

Is "sanctimonious" a negative word?

Yes, "sanctimonious" is almost always used in a negative sense. It criticizes someone for pretending to be more morally upright than they actually are.