Preacherly

Preacherly describes a style, manner, or approach that is characteristic of or resembling that of a preacher, particularly in its rhetoric, tone, and delivery. It often implies a formal, authoritative, and possibly impassioned way of speaking or writing, frequently involving moralizing, sermonizing, and the use of elevated language or religious terminology. The term can be neutral, positive, or negative, depending on the context. It highlights a deliberate attempt to persuade, instruct, or inspire, similar to the methods employed by a person delivering a sermon. The impact is often an authoritative voice that seeks to influence listeners or readers.

Preacherly meaning with examples

• The politician's speech, filled with carefully crafted pronouncements and solemn pronouncements, adopted a decidedly preacherly tone. The speaker sought to sway the audience with moral arguments and appeals to faith, attempting to instill a sense of righteousness and unity within the community through its style. This calculated approach left a lasting impact on those present at the event.
• Her book reviews often displayed a preacherly quality, carefully dissecting the author's flaws while emphasizing the moral implications of the narrative. The writing exhibited a blend of intellectual critique and moral guidance, mirroring the way a preacher might analyze human behavior for the congregation. Although, it often became overbearing in its tone, which was considered tiresome by some.
• The journalist's op-ed pieces often featured a preacherly style, as they condemned social injustices with a fervent conviction, and calling for action. His writing often displayed a reliance on biblical metaphors and imagery, giving it a forceful and persuasive appeal to a broader audience. The pieces sought to rouse readers, creating a dialogue through challenging moral boundaries.
• While reviewing the play, the drama critic noted the excessive use of soliloquies in the main character's dialogues which exhibited a preacherly nature. The overdone moralizing, even though aimed at being profound, diminished the theatrical experience. The writer found its excessive moralising, which sought to address societal problems, to be tedious, creating a distraction and a less natural impact.