legalism
noun
strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence, to law or prescription, especially to the letter rather than the spirit.
legalist
-
a word derived from
legalism.
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.
“I’m a formalist and legalist by orientation,” he said.
From Seattle Times ● Jul. 4, 2022
We live now in this cancel culture, and as for me, everyone can have their own opinions, but I am one of these guys who can be called a "legalist," and less a moralist.
From Salon ● Nov. 18, 2021
Sharett, a cautious legalist by temperament, will probably pay more heed to the U.N. and to Western wishes than his rambunctious predecessor.
From Time Magazine Archive
With many an obscure legal phrase and many a learned footnote, Lawyer Cowan pokes fun at legalists as only another legalist can.
From Time Magazine Archive
The legalist teaches that we must surrender earth in order to get heaven.
From Notes on the Book of Genesis by Charles Henry Mackintosh
