Orthodoxy: meaning, definitions and examples

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orthodoxy

[ɔːˈθɒdəksi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

religious belief

Orthodoxy refers to the accepted or traditional beliefs and practices of a religion, especially Christianity. It is the adherence to the traditional and established faith, doctrine, or practices of a religious tradition.

Synonyms

conservatism, doctrinal correctness, traditionalism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orthodoxy	Use when referring to strict adherence to accepted norms in religion or belief systems. Suggests a conventional or traditional approach. The church's orthodoxy does not allow for modern interpretations of the scripture
traditionalism	Best used when emphasizing the importance of maintaining traditions and customs. Often implies resistance to change. Her traditionalism is evident in her adherence to old family customs and ceremonies
conservatism	Appropriate when talking about political or cultural attitudes that favor tradition and resist change. Often associated with right-wing politics. His conservatism is evident in his views on limited government and traditional family values
doctrinal correctness	Suitable for discussions where accuracy and adherence to specific teachings or doctrines are emphasized, usually in a religious or ideological context. The committee ensures doctrinal correctness in every publication to maintain the group's core beliefs

Examples of usage

He was raised in the Orthodox tradition of Christianity.
The bishop emphasized the importance of orthodoxy in the church.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general belief system

Orthodoxy can also refer more broadly to a set of beliefs or practices that are widely accepted as true or correct by a particular group or society.

Synonyms

conformity, conventionalism, mainstream belief.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orthodoxy	Repeated entry; please refer to the first definition and examples.
conformity	Best used when referring to following social norms, rules, or the standard behavior within a group or society. There is often pressure to maintain conformity within the corporate culture. His refusal to accept conformity set him apart in the artistic community.
conventionalism	Applicable in discussions where following accepted standards, traditions, or expected behaviors is highlighted, usually with a slight negative connotation for lack of innovation. Her art was criticized for its conventionalism and lack of originality. Conventionalism in fashion often stifles creativity.
mainstream belief	Used when referring to ideas, opinions, or practices that are widely accepted by the majority of people. Climate change is now a mainstream belief among scientists globally. He tends to shy away from mainstream beliefs, preferring to think independently.

Examples of usage

His views were in line with the political orthodoxy of the party.
The scientific orthodoxy at the time did not support his theory.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'orthodoxos', where 'ortho' means 'correct' and 'dox' means 'opinion'.
Originally, 'orthodoxy' referred specifically to correct belief in Christianity, but its use has expanded to other areas.
It has been used since the early centuries of the Christian church to distinguish between accepted beliefs and heresy.

History

In the 11th century, the Great Schism split Christianity into Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, changing the landscape of religious belief.
During the Reformation in the 16th century, new interpretations of Christianity challenged existing orthodoxy, leading to the formation of Protestant denominations.
Various religious councils have been convened throughout history to define and defend orthodox beliefs against differing views.

Culture

Orthodoxy can play a significant role in cultural identity, helping communities maintain traditions and values.
In modern times, some movements have emerged as a response to perceived rigid orthodoxy, promoting alternative or progressive beliefs.
Different cultures may have their own orthodoxy, influencing art, literature, and social norms.

Philosophy

Philosophically, orthodoxy can stifle innovation by discouraging new ideas that contradict established norms.
Debates between orthodox and unorthodox philosophies often shape critical thought and academic discourse.
Historically, many intellectuals have battled against dominant orthodox views to promote open-mindedness and diversity of thought.

Psychology

Studies show that social groups tend to develop a cultural orthodoxy, where belief conformity can lead to the suppression of individual dissent.
Cognitive dissonance theory explains why people may cling to orthodox beliefs even when faced with contradictory evidence.
Psychologically, belonging to an orthodox group can provide a sense of security and identity, appealing to the need for community.

Translations

Translations of the word "orthodoxy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ortodoxia

🇮🇳 रूढ़िवादिता

🇩🇪 Orthodoxie

🇮🇩 ortodoksi

🇺🇦 православ'я

🇵🇱 ortodoksja

🇯🇵 正教

🇫🇷 orthodoxie

🇪🇸 ortodoxia

🇹🇷 ortodoksluk

🇰🇷 정통성

🇸🇦 الأرثوذكسية

🇨🇿 pravoslaví

🇸🇰 pravoslávie

🇨🇳 正统

🇸🇮 pravoslavje

🇮🇸 rétttrúnaður

🇰🇿 православие

🇬🇪 მართლმადიდებლობა

🇦🇿 pravoslavlıq

🇲🇽 ortodoxia

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,653, 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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12650 impregnated
12651 perusal
12652 yonder
12653 orthodoxy
12654 plume
12655 vicar
12656 encoded
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