pontificate
Definitions
To speak or express opinions in a pompous, dogmatic way
自以为是地高谈阔论，说教
The office or term of office of a pope or bishop
教皇（或主教）的职位（任期）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpont- (Latin pons/pont-, 'bridge') + fic (make, from fac) = pontifex, 'bridge-maker' — the title of a Roman high priest, later the Pope. To pontificate first meant to act as pope; now it means to lecture as if you held that kind of authority.
Why It Means This
A wonderful word chain. The Roman 'bridge-builders' (pontifices) were priests who bridged gods and men; the title passed to the Pope. From the Pope's authority to lay down doctrine came the modern, mocking sense: to pontificate is to hold forth pompously, as though your opinion were holy writ.
Common Collocations
- 1.pontificate about就……高谈阔论
- 2.pontificate on对……发表高见
- 3.love to pontificate热衷于说教
Example Sentences
- 1.
He loves to pontificate about politics at dinner parties.
- 2.
Stop pontificating and let others speak.
- 3.
Major reforms began during his pontificate.