Word

doctrine

noun C1

UK /ˈdɒk.tɹɪn/

US /ˈdɑk.tɹɪn/

Meanings

noun

a set of beliefs or teachings accepted and promoted by a religion, political group, or institution

noun

a stated policy or principle that guides actions, especially in military or government contexts

Definition

A doctrine is a set of beliefs or principles that a group teaches and follows.

A doctrine is an organized set of ideas that explains what a group believes and how it should act. It is often associated with institutions such as religions, political movements, or the military. Doctrines can guide decisions, shape policies, and define what is considered acceptable within a tradition or organization.

Examples

The professor argued that the doctrine had evolved in response to new social pressures.
I disagree with the doctrine, but I can still see why it appeals to his supporters.
She studied the doctrine closely to understand how it shaped the organization’s decisions.
They rejected the old doctrine and replaced it with a more flexible set of principles.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes use doctrine when they mean a personal opinion; doctrine usually refers to an organized, widely taught set of beliefs or guiding principles.