noun

tenet

/ˈtɛnət/ · say it: TEN·ut

a principle or belief held as true

In Formal & Academic

In more detail

a principle or belief that is held to be true, especially one that forms part of a larger system of beliefs

Examples

The company's core tenet is that customer satisfaction comes first.
One of the main tenets of Buddhism is the idea that suffering can be overcome.

How to use tenet

A tenet is a principle or belief that someone or a group considers true, often within a larger philosophical, religious, or ideological framework. It is more formal and structured than 'belief' and implies something firmly held as part of a coherent system. Tenets are typically multiple and collectively form a doctrine or worldview.

Common phrases

core tenet
fundamental tenet
central tenet
tenet of faith
basic tenet
hold a tenet

Synonyms

principle · belief · doctrine · conviction · axiom

Word family

tenets (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'tenet' with 'tenant' (a person who rents property). The words sound similar but have completely different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.

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