Meaning & Definition of word "Doctrine"
to
Doctrine
/ˈdɒktrɪn/
noun:
- 1. A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a church, political party, or other group.
- Example: The doctrine of his church emphasizes the importance of forgiveness.
- 2. A stated principle of government policy, mainly in international relations.
- Example: The Monroe Doctrine was a significant policy that opposed European colonialism in the Americas.
- 3. A principle or position in a system of beliefs.
- Example: The doctrine of separation of powers is fundamental to our government.
- 4. An official declaration of a principle or policy.
- Example: The school adopted a new doctrine on sustainable practices.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Old French 'doctrine', from Latin 'doctrina', from 'docere' meaning 'to teach'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
doctrine of predestination:
The belief that God has predetermined who will be saved.
Monroe Doctrine:
A U.S. policy opposing European colonialism in the Americas.
doctrinal statement:
A formal summary of the beliefs held by a religious group.
Related Words
dogma:
A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.
tenet:
A principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy.
creed:
A system of Christian or other religious belief; a faith.
Slang Meanings of doctrine
Meaning: Doctrinaire
Example Sentence: He followed a doctrinaire approach to marketing that ignored market changes.
Meaning: Doctrine-heavy
Example Sentence: The meeting was doctrine-heavy, focusing too much on rigid rules rather than adaptability.