Religion: meaning, definitions and examples

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religion

 

[ rษชหˆlษชdส’ษ™n ]

Context #1 | Noun

belief system

Religion is a belief in a higher power or powers that control the universe and guide human life. It often involves rituals, moral codes, and worship practices.

Synonyms

belief system, faith, spirituality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
religion

This term is used when referring to organized systems of spiritual beliefs and practices, usually with a structured doctrine, rituals, and places of worship.

  • Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism are among the world's major religions
faith

Often used to describe a strong trust or confidence in a particular religion or set of spiritual beliefs, emphasizing a personal and emotional connection.

  • Her faith in Buddhism has helped her find peace in difficult times
belief system

This phrase is more general and can encompass both religious and non-religious sets of beliefs, values, and principles that guide an individual's or group's actions and thoughts.

  • Many people adopt a belief system based on principles of karma and reincarnation
spirituality

This term refers to an individual's personal, often informal, approach to finding meaning in life, which may or may not be connected to an organized religion.

  • He practices yoga and meditation as part of his spirituality

Examples of usage

  • Many people find comfort in their religion during difficult times.
  • His religion teaches compassion and forgiveness.
  • The diversity of religions around the world is fascinating.
Context #2 | Noun

organized system of beliefs

Religion can also refer to an organized system of beliefs, practices, and moral values that are shared by a group of people. It often involves formal structures such as churches, temples, or mosques.

Synonyms

creed, religious belief, religious faith.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
religion

Use when referring to an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or a group of gods. This term often is broad and can encompass a variety of practices and traditions.

  • Christianity is the largest religion in the world.
  • Many wars in history have been fought in the name of religion.
religious belief

Use when referring to specific convictions or positions held by individuals or groups about spiritual matters. This term is often personal and pertains to what someone believes within their faith.

  • Her religious beliefs guide her daily actions.
  • Different cultures have varying religious beliefs.
religious faith

Best used to describe a strong trust or confidence in a particular religion or in a higher power. This term typically emphasizes an emotional or spiritual commitment rather than just the doctrine.

  • Despite the hardships, his religious faith never wavered.
  • She found solace in her religious faith during tough times.
creed

Best used when referring to a formal statement of beliefs or principles, especially within a particular religious group. This term emphasizes the doctrinal aspect of belief systems.

  • The Nicene Creed is recited in many Christian churches.
  • He lived according to a strict creed.

Examples of usage

  • The Catholic religion has millions of followers worldwide.
  • She converted to a new religion after studying its teachings.
  • Religions often have specific holy texts that guide their followers.

Translations

Translations of the word "religion" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น religiรฃo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคงเคฐเฅเคฎ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Religion

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ agama

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ั€ะตะปั–ะณั–ั

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ religia

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅฎ—ๆ•™

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท religion

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ religiรณn

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท din

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ข…๊ต

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุฏูŠู†

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ nรกboลพenstvรญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ nรกboลพenstvo

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅฎ—ๆ•™

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ vera

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ trรบarbrรถgรฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะดั–ะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ แƒ”แƒšแƒ˜แƒ’แƒ˜แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ din

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ religiรณn

Etymology

The word 'religion' has its roots in the Latin word 'religio', which originally meant 'respect for what is sacred, reverence for the gods'. Over time, it evolved to encompass the beliefs, rituals, and practices associated with the worship of a higher power or powers. Throughout history, religion has played a significant role in shaping cultures, societies, and individuals' lives.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,335, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.