doctrine

Pronunciation: DOK-trin

noun

Difficulty: intermediate

Definition of doctrine

A belief, principle, or set of principles taught and upheld by an authoritative group, often forming the foundation of a philosophy, religion, or ideology.

Origin of doctrine

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: doctrina

Original meaning: teaching, instruction

How it evolved: Initially tied to general teaching, the word evolved to signify a formalized set of beliefs upheld by authoritative groups.

The word 'doctrine' traces back to Latin, where it originally referred to teaching or instruction, often of an authoritative kind.

First known use: 14th century

How to Remember doctrine

Think of 'doctor'—doctors teach and uphold medical principles, just like a 'doctrine' represents a set of taught beliefs.

Synonyms for doctrine

Antonyms of doctrine

  • heresy
  • doubt
  • disbelief
  • skepticism
  • agnosticism

doctrine in a Sentence

  1. The political candidate's platform was firmly rooted in the doctrine of free market capitalism.
  2. The doctrine of nonviolence became the cornerstone of the civil rights movement, inspiring millions to fight for justice peacefully.
  3. In medieval Europe, the church enforced strict adherence to its religious doctrines, leaving little room for dissent or alternative beliefs.

doctrine in Literature & Culture

The word 'doctrine' is frequently referenced in literature and speeches that address ideological conflicts or philosophical debates, such as the Federalist Papers or Martin Luther King Jr.'s writings.

Usage Notes

The term ‘doctrine’ often connotes an authoritative or formal tone and is typically used in contexts like religion, politics, or philosophy. Avoid using it interchangeably with 'dogma,' which can carry a more rigid or inflexible connotation.

Why doctrine Matters for GRE & SAT

This word frequently appears in GRE texts discussing historical, philosophical, or ideological frameworks, making it essential for understanding complex arguments or passages.

Word Family

doctrinal (adjective)
Relating to or concerned with doctrine.
indoctrinate (verb)
To teach someone a set of beliefs, often uncritically.
doctor (noun)
An expert qualified to teach or practice a particular discipline.

Did You Know?

  • The Monroe Doctrine, established in 1823, became a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, asserting opposition to European colonialism in the Americas.
  • ‘Doctrine’ is a central concept in many religions, including Christianity, where it defines core beliefs such as the Trinity or salvation.
  • The term often appears in debates about education, with discussions over whether schools should teach doctrine or encourage critical thinking.
  • ideology
  • daunting — scary or frightening; (of a task) seeming impossible
  • dawdle — move slowly and without purpose
  • dearth — A scarcity or lack of something
  • debate — A formal discussion on a particular topic
  • debilitate — To make someone weak and infirm

More Vocabulary Words Starting with D

  • daunting — scary or frightening; (of a task) seeming impossible
  • daunting — scary or frightening; (of a task) seeming impossible
  • dawdle — move slowly and without purpose
  • dawdle — move slowly and without purpose
  • dearth — A scarcity or lack of something
  • dearth — lack of something in a particular area
  • dearth — lack of something in a particular area
  • debate — A formal discussion on a particular topic
  • debate — A formal discussion on a particular topic
  • debilitate — To make someone weak and infirm