Heretical: meaning, definitions and examples

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heretical

[həˈrɛtɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

religious beliefs

Contrary to or differing from established beliefs or doctrines, especially in religion.

Synonyms

heterodox, nonconformist, unorthodox.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
heretical	This term is often used in religious or ideological contexts to describe beliefs or opinions that go against the accepted doctrines or teachings of a particular group. It carries a negative connotation, implying a rejection of established beliefs. His views were considered heretical by the church leaders Heretical thoughts can get you expelled from the community
unorthodox	Unorthodox describes methods, ideas, or practices that are unusual, unconventional, or not commonly accepted. It is often used in contexts where innovation or creative thinking is valued. His unorthodox methods of teaching keep the students engaged The company decided to take an unorthodox approach to solve the problem
heterodox	Heterodox is used to describe ideas, beliefs, or practices that differ from what is generally accepted or traditional, often in an academic or intellectual context. It is less emotionally charged than 'heretical'. His heterodox approach to economics challenges conventional wisdom The university encourages heterodox thinking to foster innovation
nonconformist	Use this word to describe someone who does not follow established customs, rules, or traditions, often in a social or cultural context. It can be used both positively and negatively depending on the situation. She is a proud nonconformist who always does things her own way His nonconformist attitude made him unpopular with his conservative peers

Examples of usage

His heretical views were considered dangerous by the church authorities.
Many people were persecuted for holding heretical beliefs during the Spanish Inquisition.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

general

Going against accepted or official beliefs, opinions, or principles.

Synonyms

dissenting, iconoclastic, rebellious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
heretical	use when talking about beliefs or opinions that strongly go against established religious doctrines or popular beliefs. The scientist's heretical views on climate change caused quite a stir in the academic community. In the Middle Ages, heretical thoughts were often met with severe punishment.
dissenting	employ in situations where someone disagrees with a prevailing or official opinion, especially in a formal context like a court or a vote. There were several dissenting opinions among the members of the jury. She was known for her dissenting voice in the council meetings.
rebellious	employ when describing someone who resists authority, rules, or norms, often in a more general or less formal context than dissenting. Teenagers are often portrayed as having a rebellious spirit. Her rebellious attitude often got her into trouble at school.
iconoclastic	use when describing actions or individuals who challenge or attack established ideas, beliefs, and institutions, especially those that are widely respected. The artist's iconoclastic approach to painting shocked the traditional art world. He took an iconoclastic stance against many societal norms.

Examples of usage

His ideas were considered heretical by the scientific community.
The new theory was met with heretical skepticism by traditional scholars.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originated from the Greek 'hairetikos', meaning 'able to choose', referring to people choosing different beliefs.
It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally used to describe those who diverged from established religious doctrines.

History

In medieval Europe, being labeled as heretical could lead to harsh punishments, including excommunication or execution.
The Inquisition was a significant historical event aimed at identifying and punishing heretics within the Christian faith.

Literature

Authors like Dante Alighieri in 'The Divine Comedy' and Salman Rushdie in 'The Satanic Verses' explored themes of heresy, reflecting societal tensions around belief.
Many works of literature, such as Albert Camus' 'The Stranger', challenge conventional beliefs, drawing parallels to heretical thinking.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Socrates were considered heretical for questioning traditional beliefs and encouraging critical thinking.
Heretical ideas have influenced many philosophical movements, leading to the development of modern thought through challenging and re-evaluating norms.

Pop Culture

The term frequently appears in movies and books to depict characters who oppose societal norms, often seen in dystopian narratives.
Popular TV shows like 'The Handmaid's Tale' highlight heretical views as a form of resistance against authoritarian regimes.

Translations

Translations of the word "heretical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 herético

🇮🇳 विधर्मी

🇩🇪 ketzerisch

🇮🇩 bid'ah

🇺🇦 єретичний

🇵🇱 heretycki

🇯🇵 異端の

🇫🇷 hérétique

🇪🇸 herético

🇹🇷 dinsiz

🇰🇷 이단의

🇸🇦 مهرطق

🇨🇿 kacířský

🇸🇰 kacírske

🇨🇳 异端的

🇸🇮 krivičarski

🇮🇸 villutrúarlegur

🇰🇿 дінсіз

🇬🇪 ერეტიკული

🇦🇿 kafir

🇲🇽 herético

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,166, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17163 unveiled
17164 dissipate
17165 disprove
17166 heretical
17167 intrude
17168 silhouette
17169 steed
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