adopt a doctrine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adopt a doctrine" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of accepting or implementing a specific set of beliefs or principles, often in a formal or organizational context. Example: "The committee decided to adopt a doctrine that emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices in all operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But he did confirm that he proposed that Pakistan adopt a doctrine of "strategic defiance" involving an alliance between Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The air force has adopted a doctrine of "counterspace operations" that envisages either destroying enemy satellites in a future war or temporarily disabling them.

The Economist

But as president, Mr Khatami had limited powers to deliver what they wanted.That was because the constitution drawn up under Ayatollah Khomeini adopted a doctrine known as velayat-e faqih, in which an Islamic jurist sits as "supreme leader" at the apex of politics.

The Economist

In late 1974, the government of Rhodesia's main ally and backer, South Africa, adopted a doctrine of "détente" with the Frontline States.

Wikipedia

Yet the president plainly believes that there are so many variables in the present fast-moving circumstances that it is not possible to adopt a single doctrine that fits each case.

The Economist

To adopt a general doctrine of this sort seems an awfully precipitous response to the possibility of akrasia.

SEP

A1 Russian Church Sets Doctrine The Russian Orthodox Church adopted a social doctrine that, among other things, condemned genetic engineering, homosexuality, euthanasia and abortion.

The New York Times

The success of Libya has prompted speculation that Cameron will adopt a foreign policy doctrine.

The Guardian

The new church, formed when these demands were rejected by the Vatican in 1919, adopted a rationalistic doctrine and a form of organization modeled on Presbyterianism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Russian Orthodox Church adopted a social doctrine today that condemns genetic engineering, homosexuality, euthanasia and abortion, approves of the concept of private property and reconfirms the church's close relationship with the military.

The New York Times

Still, as the U.S. military prepares to depart from Iraq (leaving a handful of embassy guards), and the war in Afghanistan enters its last act, he owes the American people, U.S. allies and the world a speech that sets out why America will not again embark on this kind of inconclusive war and has instead adopted a new doctrine that has replaced fighting terror with killing terrorists.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "adopt a doctrine", ensure that the doctrine is well-defined and aligns with the goals and values of the entity adopting it.

Common error

Avoid selectively applying aspects of the doctrine based on convenience. For example, if you "adopt a doctrine" of transparency, ensure all information is readily accessible, not just the favorable data.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adopt a doctrine" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of formally accepting and implementing a set of principles or beliefs. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adopt a doctrine" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the acceptance and implementation of a set of principles or beliefs. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase appears across various domains, including news, encyclopedias, and science, suggesting a neutral register. While not exceedingly common, it is readily understandable and suitable for formal or professional contexts. Effective usage involves ensuring the chosen doctrine aligns with the adopting entity's goals and values, and consistently applying its tenets to avoid inconsistencies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

embrace a principle

Focuses on actively accepting a guiding rule or belief.

implement a strategy

Shifts the focus to putting a plan into action, rather than just accepting an idea.

integrate a philosophy

Emphasizes incorporating a worldview into practices.

espouse a belief system

Highlights open endorsement and advocacy of a set of beliefs.

follow a tenet

Implies adhering to a core principle or doctrine.

subscribe to an ideology

Focuses on formally aligning with a specific system of thought.

take on a theory

Emphasizes adopting a structured explanation or model.

assume a stance

Highlights the adoption of a particular viewpoint or position.

internalize a value

Focuses on deeply integrating a guiding principle into one's own behavior.

institute a policy

Changes the emphasis to formally establishing a procedure or rule.

FAQs

How can I use "adopt a doctrine" in a sentence?

You can use "adopt a doctrine" to indicate the formal acceptance of a set of beliefs or principles, such as: "The organization decided to "adopt a doctrine" of sustainability."

What are some alternatives to saying "adopt a doctrine"?

Alternatives include "embrace a principle", "implement a strategy", or "integrate a philosophy", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "adopt a doctrine" or "develop a doctrine"?

"Adopt a doctrine" implies taking an existing set of principles, while "develop a doctrine" suggests creating a new one. The better choice depends on whether a suitable doctrine already exists or if a customized approach is needed.

What does it mean to "adopt a doctrine of strategic defiance"?

To "adopt a doctrine of strategic defiance" means to accept a strategy that involves challenging or resisting established norms or powers, often in the context of international relations or security policy. This might involve forming alliances or pursuing policies that contradict prevailing expectations.