Meaning & use

doctrine

noun·Academic

A set of beliefs or principles taught and held by a religious, political, or philosophical group.

See it in a sentence

The church's doctrine on charity shapes how its members treat the poor.

The president outlined a new foreign policy doctrine during his inaugural address.

A note on using this word

Doctrine usually refers to an official, formalized teaching, whereas 'belief' can describe a more personal or informal conviction.

Words with a similar meaning

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