Doctrinal: meaning, definitions and examples

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doctrinal

[ˈdɒk.trɪ.nəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

legal

Relating to a doctrine or set of doctrines, especially religious ones.

Synonyms

dogmatic, philosophical, theological.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
doctrinal	Used when referring to specific religious or ideological beliefs and rules. The church's doctrinal stance on marriage is quite strict The doctrinal differences between the two sects were the main cause of the split
dogmatic	Used when describing someone who lays down principles as unquestionably true without consideration for evidence or the opinions of others. It often has a negative connotation. His dogmatic approach to politics made it difficult to have an open discussion She was so dogmatic about her views that she wouldn't listen to anyone else's opinion
theological	Used when discussing the study of the nature of God and religious beliefs, typically within a formal academic setting. Her theological studies led her to believe in a more compassionate view of the divine Theological discussions often revolve around interpreting sacred texts
philosophical	Used when dealing with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, often in a broad and abstract manner. He enjoys having philosophical debates about the meaning of life The book delves deep into philosophical questions about the nature of reality

Examples of usage

The party's platform is based on a doctrinal commitment to individual freedom.
The court's decision was influenced by doctrinal considerations.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

educational

Relating to the principles or teachings of a particular subject, especially in a systematic way.

Synonyms

academic, instructional, scholarly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
doctrinal	Used when referring to a principle, policy, or theory, particularly in religious or ideological contexts. The church's stance on these issues is strictly doctrinal The new law introduces several doctrinal changes
instructional	Used to describe something intended to teach or provide instructions. The instructional video helped me learn how to cook They provided an instructional guide for assembling the furniture
academic	Refers to anything related to education, schools, universities, or scholarly activities. It can also imply something theoretical or not practical. Her academic achievements are impressive The discussion was purely academic and had no real-world applications
scholarly	Refers to work or activity that is scholarly, typically associated with serious academic study and research. He published a scholarly article on medieval history The book is a scholarly work on linguistics

Examples of usage

The university's doctrinal approach to economics emphasizes practical application.
The doctrinal differences between the two schools of thought led to a lively debate.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'doctrina', meaning 'teaching' or 'instruction'.
In English, 'doctrine' began to be used in the 14th century to describe specific religious teachings.

Religion

Many religions have doctrinal beliefs that guide their followers' actions, such as the Ten Commandments in Christianity.
Doctrines can evolve over time, as seen in various Christian denominations adapting their beliefs and practices.

Law

In legal contexts, doctrinal analysis involves interpreting laws and how they apply to specific cases.
Judicial doctrines, such as the principle of 'stare decisis', emphasize the importance of following established legal precedents.

Political Theory

In politics, doctrinal positions can shape party platforms, influencing debates on social policies.
The term 'doctrinaire' describes a strong adherence to a particular political doctrine, often seen as rigid or inflexible.

Philosophy

Many philosophical schools, like Utilitarianism, have doctrinal components that dictate how to evaluate right and wrong.
Doctrines in philosophy encourage critical thinking about ethics, knowledge, and existence.

Translations

Translations of the word "doctrinal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 doutrinal

🇮🇳 सिद्धान्तात्मक

🇩🇪 doktrinär

🇮🇩 doktrinal

🇺🇦 доктринальний

🇵🇱 doktrynalny

🇯🇵 教義的な

🇫🇷 doctrinal

🇪🇸 doctrinal

🇹🇷 doktrinel

🇰🇷 교리상의

🇸🇦 عقائدي

🇨🇿 doktrinální

🇸🇰 doktrinálny

🇨🇳 教义的

🇸🇮 doktrinalen

🇮🇸 kenningarlegur

🇰🇿 доктриналды

🇬🇪 დოქტრინალური

🇦🇿 doktrinal

🇲🇽 doctrinal

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,896, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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12893 competencies
12894 horrid
12895 streaks
12896 doctrinal
12897 qua
12898 steaming
12899 briefing
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