Word
agnostic
Meanings
Not claiming to know whether God exists; unsure about religious belief.
A person who does not claim to know whether God exists.
Not committed to any particular option or system; neutral or undecided because it doesn’t matter which is used.
Definition
An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
An agnostic believes that it is not possible to know for certain whether God exists or not. Many agnostics neither believe nor disbelieve firmly, and they avoid making definite claims about religion. The word can also describe a person’s attitude of uncertainty on other topics when evidence is unclear.
Examples
- She describes herself as agnostic and avoids religious debates.
- He is agnostic, so he says he doesn’t know if there is a God.
- Our software is agnostic about which database you use.
- I stayed agnostic on the issue until I read more evidence.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse agnostic with atheist; agnostic means unsure or unknowable, while atheist means believing there is no God.
More at B2 level
- fascism Fascism is an extreme right-wing political system with a powerful dictator, strong nationalism, and…
- gaslighting Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that makes someone doubt their own memory, judg…
- narcissist A narcissist is someone who is excessively self-centered and craves admiration while showing little…
- niche A niche is a specialized place, role, or market that suits a particular person or product.
- hyperbole Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration used for emphasis or humor.
More adjectives
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.