puristi

Puristi (plural of purista in Italian) is a term used to describe people who advocate strict adherence to traditional forms, rules, or ideals within a particular domain. The label is applied across contexts, including language, art, music, sports, and design, to characterize those who resist deviations from established norms or canonical versions.

In language, puristi or prescriptivists favor normative grammar, spelling, pronunciation, and vocabulary. They oppose slang, neologisms, or nonstandard varieties, arguing that purity protects intelligibility, heritage, and cultural identity.

In arts and culture, puristi may insist on faithful reproduction of original works, historically informed performances in music, or traditional media and techniques in photography and cinema. In sports and hobbies, purists prefer canonical rules and original equipment or playing styles, resisting modernization that they perceive as diluting tradition.

Critics argue that purism can be exclusionary and hinder innovation, describing it as elitist or dogmatic. Proponents counter that some standards help maintain quality, authenticity, and cultural continuity.

Historically the idea of purismo has appeared in various languages and movements as societies confronted modernization. The term puristi itself is used descriptively, sometimes pejoratively, to label opponents of change.