Provincials

Provincials refers to individuals or groups who are considered to be limited in their perspectives, experience, or sophistication, often due to living outside a major urban center or adhering to traditional or conservative values. They are sometimes perceived as being narrow-minded, unsophisticated, or lacking exposure to diverse cultures and ideas. The term carries connotations of geographical or intellectual insularity, suggesting a worldview confined to a particular region or set of beliefs. It can also denote a lack of awareness of or interest in broader trends and developments.

Provincials meaning with examples

• The metropolitan elite often viewed the provincials in the countryside as out of touch with modern societal changes. Their focus on local traditions and reluctance to embrace new technologies were considered evidence of their limited worldview. The city dwellers felt they were more open and sophisticated than the provincials who seemed content with their simple life.
• After years abroad, Sarah found it challenging to relate to her former classmates. She felt they remained provincials trapped by their small-town mentality and conservative views. Their lack of curiosity about the wider world and their unwillingness to question established norms made conversations with them difficult and unsatisfying. She felt she had evolved.
• The critic accused the artistic movement of being hopelessly *provincial*, focusing only on regional styles and ignoring the global artistic innovations of the time. He argued that their resistance to international influence resulted in a stagnation of creativity. The artists were criticized for their stubborn adherence to local aesthetic ideals.
• During the trade negotiations, the foreign delegates were sometimes frustrated by the *provincial* mindset of some government officials, who prioritized local interests over broader economic cooperation. Their narrow focus hindered progress. The delegates worried they would fail to reach any international agreements.