What does ideologically mean?
Ideologically is an adverb meaning in accordance with a particular ideology or system of beliefs. It commonly appears in political, social, and economic discussion, especially when describing conduct, commitments, divisions, or interpretations shaped by an underlying doctrine. For example, a speaker may be described as ideologically opposed to another group even if they share some practical interests. The word can suggest that a position arises from a broad philosophy rather than a single immediate concern, and it may carry a critical tone when used of rigid or dogmatic commitments. Because “ideologically” points to the influence of an ideology rather than to an idea being logically reasonable, it is useful for discussing the relationship between beliefs, values, and action.
adverbIn a manner relating to a particular ideology or system of beliefs, especially one concerning politics, society, or economics.
- In accordance with a particular ideology or set of political, social, or economic beliefs.
"The committee approached the issue ideologically rather than focusing on practical consequences."
"The two groups remained ideologically divided despite sharing the same immediate goals."
"She argued ideologically that the policy would inevitably deepen inequality."
An idea can sound like a practical judgment, but used ideologically, it reveals the belief system doing the thinking.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ideologically
The word belongs to the family of ideology, which comes from Greek idea, meaning form or pattern, and -logy, meaning the study of. In English, ideology developed in the 19th century with the sense of the body of ideas characteristic of a social, political, or economic group. The adjective ideological followed, and the adverb ideologically was formed from that adjective. The related noun ideologue denotes a person associated with an ideology.
Related word forms
How ideologically is actually used
This is a formal and often somewhat abstract term. It can suggest that an action or judgment is determined by a broader system of beliefs, and is sometimes used critically.
Easily confused with ideologically
“Ideological” is an adjective describing a position or outlook, whereas “ideologically” is an adverb describing how someone acts or thinks.