What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
doctrinal
Example
The church's doctrinal teachings are based on the Bible. [doctrinal: adjective]
Example
The course focuses on the doctrinal differences between various religious traditions. [doctrinal: adjective]
Example
The professor's lecture was highly doctrinal, emphasizing the theoretical foundations of the subject. [doctrinal: adjective]
doctrinaire
Example
The politician's doctrinaire views made it difficult for him to compromise with his opponents. [doctrinaire: adjective]
Example
The company's doctrinaire policies stifled innovation and creativity. [doctrinaire: adjective]
Example
The professor's doctrinaire approach to teaching left little room for discussion or debate. [doctrinaire: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doctrinal is more commonly used than doctrinaire in everyday language, especially in religious, philosophical, or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between doctrinal and doctrinaire?
Both doctrinal and doctrinaire are formal words, but doctrinal is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while doctrinaire is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts.
