Sanctimoniousness

Sanctimoniousness is the quality of making a show of being morally superior to other people. It's a self-righteous attitude, often expressed through exaggerated piety, judgmental pronouncements, and a tendency to condemn others while conveniently overlooking one's own flaws. The term implies a degree of hypocrisy, as the individual displaying sanctimoniousness frequently fails to live up to the standards they impose on others. It is a form of moral posturing, where outward displays of religious devotion or virtue are used to gain approval, status, or to manipulate situations, rather than stemming from genuine internal belief or compassion. The behavior often manifests as a condescending tone, a lack of empathy, and a willingness to publicly shame or criticize. sanctimoniousness ultimately alienates others, fostering resentment and mistrust.

Sanctimoniousness meaning with examples

• The politician's constant pronouncements about family values, while simultaneously being implicated in a series of affairs, were the very definition of sanctimoniousness. His supporters, blinded by ideology, often failed to see his hypocrisy and the impact it had on his image. It led to a divided voting demographic. The public at large saw him as fake.
• She delivered her criticism with an air of sanctimoniousness, as if her own past transgressions were entirely erased by her current position. Her judgmental gaze, accompanied by a thinly veiled air of superiority, put off the majority of people and made them feel uncomfortable. The effect was polarizing.
• The religious leader's sermons were often tinged with sanctimoniousness, condemning societal ills while conveniently avoiding any introspection on the church's own failings. The lack of compassion was staggering. Few members of the congregation felt they were truly understood.
• He approached the debate with a palpable sense of sanctimoniousness, constantly interrupting his opponent to proclaim the moral superiority of his own viewpoint, ignoring the others. The other speakers quickly withdrew, unwilling to engage. The event quickly turned into a waste of time.
• The online forum was riddled with sanctimoniousness, as users self-righteously attacked anyone who dared to express a dissenting opinion. Every dissenting voice was silenced. The culture of 'woke' online was one of constant judgement.