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“Pontificate” can refer to the duties of a religious figure or their office, as well as to speaking in dogmatic terms. It can also have a negative connotation when used to describe condescending speech, often seen in politics. This approach may rally support but is unlikely to sway those with opposing views.
The term “pontificate,” like many other words, means different things depending on the context in which it is used. Pontificate can be used as a noun to refer to various aspects of pontifical duties or to the office of a pontiff such as a pope or bishop. When used as a verb, however, it commonly refers to the speech or oratory of a religious figure, usually on dogmatic or religious topics. It can also have a negative connotation, however, when used to describe the speech of a non-religious figure, where it typically labels a person as pompous.
Use as a noun
When someone refers to the “pontificate,” they usually mean the office of a religious figure such as the Catholic pope. Typically, it describes the administration of such an office. In this case, it’s usually pronounced a little differently than when it’s a verb, with the emphasis placed on the “-tif-” in the middle and the “-cate” at the end pronounced as “kit.”
Use as a verb with a positive meaning
Pontificating also means speaking in dogmatic or inflexible terms. It is an intransitive verb, meaning one that does not take an object, and is pronounced with emphasis on the “pon-” at the beginning and the “-cate” at the end pronounced as “kate”. Many people regard this way of speaking as a religious characteristic, as many religions are inherently dogmatic. Priests, rabbis, imams and other clergy are inclined to pontificate, and in this sense it is not a negative characteristic.
Use as a negative verb
Some people commonly use this term to describe a form of condescending speech. Someone who speaks pompously, haughtily, or condescendingly can be seen as a pontificator. People often use this approach to speech or lessons to demean those who hold a different opinion, to make them feel inferior for not agreeing with the speaker’s “enlightened” perspective.
It’s not uncommon to hear exaggerated rhetoric from politicians known for pontificating during campaign speeches. For example, liberalism and conservatism are conflicting ideologies, and both factions are aggressive in their attempts to influence public opinion. The voting base of both philosophies often applauds the pontificating of their leaders, while the other side tends to interpret the remarks as condescending and closed-minded.
Effects of this speech
This blatant approach to public speaking may not seem very effective, but it often rallies a support base and even influences some voters who were previously undecided. Speaking with passion can often come across as speaking from the heart, whether it’s true or not. The activist who chooses to pontificate may swing some votes, but is unlikely to sway anyone with a completely opposite political view. Indeed, a pompous recitation of opposing political ideals often turns many listeners off.
