What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dogma
Example
The church's dogma states that there is only one God. [dogma: noun]
Example
She was criticized for her dogmatic approach to politics. [dogmatic: adjective]
tenet
Example
One of the tenets of Buddhism is the concept of non-attachment. [tenet: noun]
Example
Freedom of speech is a tenet of democracy. [tenet: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tenet is more commonly used than dogma in everyday language. Tenet is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, while dogma is less common and tends to be associated with religious or philosophical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dogma and tenet?
Both dogma and tenet are formal words that are typically used in academic or intellectual contexts. However, dogma may be perceived as more formal and rigid than tenet, which is more neutral and adaptable.