What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
doctrinate
Example
The professor sought to doctrinate his students with his political views. [doctrinate: verb]
Example
The school's curriculum was designed to doctrinate students in the principles of democracy. [doctrinate: verb]
indoctrinate
Example
The cult leader used various techniques to indoctrinate his followers into his beliefs. [indoctrinate: verb]
Example
The government attempted to indoctrinate the population with propaganda to maintain control. [indoctrinate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Doctrinate is less commonly used than indoctrinate in everyday language. Doctrinate is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts, while indoctrinate is more commonly used in discussions of politics, religion, or cults.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between doctrinate and indoctrinate?
Doctrinate is generally considered more formal than indoctrinate, which has a more negative connotation and is often associated with propaganda or brainwashing.
