Conservative
/kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/
Definitions
3 meaningsHolding or tending to hold traditional values and cautious about change or innovation, typically in relation to politics or religion.
/kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/
Holding or advocating traditional values and cautious about change.
The conservative candidate won the election.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who likes things the way they are and isn't too keen on making big changes. They'd probably prefer to keep things the same rather than try something new.
👶 For kids: Someone who likes things to stay the same and doesn't like big changes.
More Examples
He has a conservative style when it comes to his clothing.
The company adopted a conservative approach to financial investments.
How It's Used
"The conservative party aims to reduce government spending."
"She has a conservative approach to fashion, preferring classic styles."
Holding political views favoring free enterprise, private ownership, and socially conservative ideas.
/kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/
Reluctant to accept much change, especially in relation to politics.
She is a very conservative politician who is often against new taxes.
💡 Simply: This is like someone who's part of a political party that usually wants to keep taxes low and make sure people are responsible and follow certain rules.
👶 For kids: When someone is a part of a political party that usually wants to keep things simple.
More Examples
The country's conservative government implemented new financial policies.
How It's Used
"The conservative policies focus on fiscal responsibility."
A person who holds conservative political views.
/kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/
A person who is conservative in their political views.
The conservatives are often seen as the party of tradition.
💡 Simply: Someone who is a member of the conservative political party or holds conservative beliefs.
👶 For kids: A person who likes things to stay the same and who votes for the conservative political party.
More Examples
Many conservatives believe in the importance of individual responsibility.
How It's Used
"The conservatives held a rally in the city center."
Idioms & expressions
conservative estimate
An estimate that is deliberately cautious and tends to be on the lower side.
"The company gave a conservative estimate of their annual profits."
socially conservative
Holding traditional views on social issues, such as marriage, family, and morality.
"Many socially conservative individuals oppose same-sex marriage."
From Latin *conservare* meaning 'to keep, preserve'. It evolved through Old French and came into English with connotations of preserving existing institutions and traditions.
The term gained prominence in the 19th century as a political ideology, particularly in response to the French Revolution and the rise of liberalism.
Memory tip
Think of someone who wants to *conserve* the old ways.