backward thinking

[ˈbækwərd ˈθɪŋkɪŋ]
noun/adjective phrase
pensamento retrógrado
1. A way of thinking that is opposed to progress; adherence to outdated ideas or methods; resistance to modern development or innovation
His backward thinking prevented the company from adopting new technologies.
Seu pensamento retrógrado impediu a empresa de adotar novas tecnologias.
2. Mental attitudes or beliefs that reflect prejudice, narrow-mindedness, or lack of education
Backward thinking about gender roles is still prevalent in some communities.
O pensamento retrógrado sobre papéis de gênero ainda é prevalente em algumas comunidades.
In Brazil, criticizing 'pensamento retrógrado' is common in discussions about social progress, education, and modernization. The phrase is frequently used in political discourse and debates about social reform. In the USA, 'backward thinking' carries similar connotations but is often used in educational and progressive contexts to advocate for change.
NYC Slang
stuck in the past
Synonyms / Sinônimos
outdated thinkingarchaic mindsetregressive thinkingold-fashioned attitudesnarrow-mindednessclosed-mindedness
Antonyms / Antônimos
progressive thinkingforward thinkingmodern perspectiveinnovative mindsetenlightenment

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
pensamento retrógrado
Most common and formal usage
General Brazilian
mentalidade atrasada
Colloquial alternative
São Paulo
pensamento arcaico
Slightly more formal variant
Portugal
pensamento retrógrado
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; formal and standard

Related Words

regressiveantiquatedobsoleteconservativestagnationprejudice

Related Idioms & Phrases

living in the past
stuck in one's ways
behind the times
dinosaur mentality
stuck in the Stone Age
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