What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heterodoxy
Example
The professor's heterodox views on economics challenged traditional theories. [heterodox: adjective]
Example
The book explores the heterodoxies of various religious sects throughout history. [heterodoxies: plural noun]
heresy
Example
The priest was accused of heresy for preaching ideas that contradicted church doctrine. [heresy: noun]
Example
The government considered the activist's views on democracy to be heretical and arrested him. [heretical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Heterodoxy is more commonly used in everyday language than heresy. Heresy is a more specialized term that is primarily used in religious contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heterodoxy and heresy?
Both heterodoxy and heresy are formal terms that are typically used in academic or intellectual discussions. However, heresy may carry a stronger negative connotation and is therefore less appropriate for formal situations.
