Meaning of "obscurantism" in English

Obscurantism refers to the practice of deliberately preventing facts or details from becoming known, either by restricting access to information or by providing misleading information. It is often used in the context of philosophy, religion, or politics where it describes actions aimed at keeping the public uninformed or at maintaining the status quo by avoiding transparency. This term carries a negative connotation and is typically associated with opposition to enlightenment and progress.

Meaning of "obscurantisme" in French

In French, "obscurantisme" carries a similar meaning, referring to efforts to obscure or hinder access to knowledge and truth. It has historical roots in the resistance to the Enlightenment, representing a preference for ignorance and suppression of critical thought. In modern usage, it often criticizes tactics used by authorities or institutions to maintain power by keeping populations uninformed. Like its English counterpart, it generally holds negative implications, often linked to reactionary or regressive forces.

Pronunciation of "obscurantism" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [əbˈskjʊrəntɪzəm]

Pronunciation Variations: In British English, the emphasis may be slightly different, with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable. In American English, the articulation is somewhat more fluid, with less distinct separation between syllables.

Pronunciation of "obscurantisme" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [ɔpskyʁɑ̃tism]

Pronunciation Variations: Regional accents in France might influence the pronunciation slightly, with variations in the articulation of the nasal sounds or the intensity of the "r" sound, but generally, the pronunciation remains consistent across Francophone regions.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The leader's obscurantism was evident in his refusal to allow access to educational resources.
    (L'obscurantisme du dirigeant était évident dans son refus de permettre l'accès aux ressources éducatives.)

  2. Obscurantism in the media can distort public perception and hinder progress.
    (L'obscurantisme dans les médias peut déformer la perception du public et freiner le progrès.)

  3. Many activists fight against obscurantism to promote transparency and truth.
    (De nombreux militants luttent contre l'obscurantisme pour promouvoir la transparence et la vérité.)

  4. The era was marked by religious obscurantism that stifled scientific advancement.
    (L'époque était marquée par un obscurantisme religieux qui freinait l'avancement scientifique.)

  5. Obscurantism is often criticized for maintaining traditional power structures.
    (L'obscurantisme est souvent critiqué pour maintenir les structures de pouvoir traditionnelles.)

  6. His policies reflected a dangerous level of obscurantism.
    (Ses politiques reflétaient un niveau dangereux d'obscurantisme.)

  7. Obscurantism can be a significant barrier to educational reform.
    (L'obscurantisme peut être un obstacle majeur à la réforme de l'éducation.)

  8. The novel explores themes of obscurantism and enlightenment.
    (Le roman explore des thèmes d'obscurantisme et de lumière.)

  9. Obscurantism was used as a tool to suppress dissent and control populations.
    (L'obscurantisme était utilisé comme un outil pour supprimer la dissidence et contrôler les populations.)

  10. Modern society grapples with new forms of obscurantism in the digital age.
    (La société moderne lutte contre de nouvelles formes d'obscurantisme à l'ère numérique.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obscurantism" in English

Synonyms: censorship, suppression, mystification, concealment, misinformation

Antonyms: enlightenment, transparency, clarity, openness, knowledge

Similar Words: secrecy, ignorance, manipulation, deception, cover-up

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "obscurantisme" in French

Synonyms: censure, suppression, mystification, dissimulation, désinformation

Antonyms: lumière, transparence, clarté, ouverture, savoir

Similar Words: secret, ignorance, manipulation, tromperie, occultation

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