Tenet
hardNeutral toneTEN-it
noun
Definition
A principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy
Memory hook
TENET is a palindrome - it reads the same forwards and backwards, like a core belief you hold firmly from every angle.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Individual freedom is a central tenet of democracy.”
“The organization's tenets emphasized equality and justice.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Individual freedom is a central ______ of democracy.”
Show answer
tenet
Categories
GRE Tip
Tenet is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "principle" or "doctrine" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "heresy".
Related GRE Words
doctrine
A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a church, political party, or other group
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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