WordValedoctrine
a stated principle guiding a government's policy
In more detail
1. (noun) a set of beliefs or principles that a person, group, or organization holds and teaches
2. (noun) an official statement of beliefs or principles, especially by a government or religious organization
Examples
- The political party's doctrine emphasizes individual freedom and limited government.
- The Monroe Doctrine was an important statement of U.S. foreign policy in the 19th century.
How to use doctrine
Doctrine refers to a formal or official set of beliefs presented as authoritative truth, typically by institutions like governments, churches, or political parties. It often carries a sense of something taught systematically and authoritatively, sometimes implying that the beliefs are not questioned. Unlike the more neutral 'principle,' doctrine can suggest a rigid or institutional quality.
Common phrases
- religious doctrine
- official doctrine
- established doctrine
- doctrine of
- doctrinal dispute
Synonyms
principle · belief · tenet · ideology · dogma
Word family
doctrinal (adjective) · doctrinaire (adjective/noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use doctrine to mean a single belief or opinion, when it typically refers to a coordinated system or collection of related beliefs rather than an isolated idea.
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