Doctrine
mediumNeutral toneDOK-trin
noun
Definition
A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a church, political party, or other group
Memory hook
DOCT-rine: what a DOCTOR (teacher) of the church teaches - an official set of beliefs.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The party adhered strictly to its economic doctrine.”
“Religious doctrine shaped their daily practices.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The party adhered strictly to its economic ______.”
Show answer
doctrine
Categories
GRE Tip
Doctrine is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "tenet" or "principle" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "heresy".
Related GRE Words
tenet
A principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy
precept
A general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought
principle
A fundamental truth or proposition; a rule or belief governing behavior
credulous
Having or showing too great a readiness to believe things
disabuse
to free someone from a mistaken belief or illusion
heterodox
Not conforming with accepted or orthodox standards or beliefs
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