central doctrine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "central doctrine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a fundamental principle or belief that is essential to a particular system of thought or ideology. Example: "The central doctrine of the philosophy emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and responsibility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

It was the central doctrine of Aristotle's philosophy of nature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is, he suggests, the closest the United States comes to having a central doctrine.

The New York Times - Books

Gopnik's article is almost entirely silent on Buddhism's central doctrine of compassion.

The New Yorker

After all, its central doctrine is the incarnation, and Saint Paul taught the resurrection of the body.

The Guardian - Opinion

While critical of Mr. Bush for making military pre-emption a central doctrine, he insisted he would be willing to use it as a "last resort".

The New York Times

This is true especially of his central doctrine of the "unity of being" and his sharp distinction between the absolute One, which is undefinable Truth (ḥaqq), and his self-manifestation (ẓuhūr), or creation (khalq), which is ever new (jadīd) and in perpetual movement, a movement that unites the whole of creation in a process of constant renewal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

This truth of the human person is tied to the central doctrines of the church.

The Guardian - Opinion

Many liberal Catholics stay with the church precisely because of its central doctrines.

The New York Times

The central doctrines of this school were developed by a group of philosophers, scientists, and logicians centred in Vienna who came to be known as the Vienna Circle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

While many American Catholics undoubtedly believe that the Vatican should change its teachings with regard to issues like the ordination of women and allowing priests to marry, these are not "central doctrines" in Catholicism.

The New York Times

Gopnik might also have noted that Giordano Bruno was not burned at the stake simply for proposing new cosmologies but for denying the divinity of Jesus, the authority of the Church, the single creation of human beings, and a lot of other central doctrines.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "central doctrine" when you want to emphasize the most important or fundamental principle of a belief system or philosophy. For example, in discussing Christianity, you might note that the Resurrection is a "central doctrine".

Common error

Avoid misidentifying secondary or supporting beliefs as the "central doctrine". The "central doctrine" represents the core, non-negotiable principle upon which the entire system of thought is built. Ensure your understanding aligns with established interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "central doctrine" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a key principle or belief within a given system of thought. Examples on Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, confirming its role as a descriptor of core tenets.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "central doctrine" is a noun phrase that refers to the most important or fundamental principle of a belief system or philosophy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When writing, ensure you clearly define the "central doctrine" you're discussing and differentiate it from supporting beliefs. Alternatives such as ""core tenet"" or ""fundamental principle"" can be used for variety, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core tenet

Focuses on the foundational aspect, emphasizing a belief that's essential to a system.

fundamental principle

Highlights the basic and essential nature of the doctrine.

key belief

Emphasizes the importance of the doctrine as a primary conviction.

primary teaching

Highlights the instructive aspect of the doctrine.

main precept

Refers to the doctrine as a rule or guideline.

cardinal idea

Stresses the doctrine's importance and centrality.

chief dogma

Highlights the authoritative and established nature of the doctrine.

basic concept

Highlights the doctrine as a foundational idea or notion.

essential element

Emphasizes the necessity of the doctrine as a part of a larger whole.

critical component

Underscores the importance of the doctrine as a vital part.

FAQs

What does "central doctrine" mean?

The "central doctrine" refers to the most important or fundamental principle of a belief system, philosophy, or ideology. It's the core teaching that defines and shapes the entire system.

How do I use "central doctrine" in a sentence?

You can use "central doctrine" to refer to a fundamental principle or belief that is essential to a particular system of thought or ideology. For example: "The "central doctrine" of the philosophy emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and responsibility."

What can I say instead of "central doctrine"?

You can use alternatives like "core tenet", "fundamental principle", or "key belief" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "central doctrine" and "supporting belief"?

The "central doctrine" is the primary, foundational belief, while supporting beliefs are secondary principles that reinforce or elaborate on the "central doctrine". The system can stand or fall based on its "central doctrine".