paternalistic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It is never paternalistic to insist that countries treat their citizens well," he said.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

The document casts its criticism of Europe in an almost paternalistic tone—the kind of tough love advice one gives a friend.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 6, 2025

"It may sound paternalistic, but midwives believed they were looking after mums and babies incredibly well."

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2025

It gets hearty laughs by flattening Russell’s Walker — a tragic Afghanistan veteran confused by the government’s inconsistency about when he’s allowed to kill — into a spoof of bossy, paternalistic privilege.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2025

I, too, had been susceptible to paternalistic British colonialism and the appeal of being perceived by whites as “cultured” and “progressive” and “civilized.”

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela