on doctrinal grounds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on doctrinal grounds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing decisions, beliefs, or actions that are based on established doctrines or principles, often in a religious or philosophical context. Example: "The committee decided to reject the proposal on doctrinal grounds, as it conflicted with the core beliefs of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Although some of them refuse on doctrinal grounds to get involved in running the country, others do so with a will.

The Economist

There is a parallel here with the case of Jehovahs Witnesses who used to be able to refuse, on doctrinal grounds, blood transfusions for their children whose lives depended on the procedure.

The Guardian

The question facing the American bishops, who oppose same-sex marriage on doctrinal grounds, is how it will choose to address this momentum".

Huffington Post

The initial regulations proved controversial among certain religious groups, most notably evangelicals and Lutherans, and especially the Roman Catholic hierarchy, whose hospitals, charities and educational institutions of higher learning, as well as other enterprises, oppose contraception on doctrinal grounds.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

On those doctrinal grounds, Lashkar-e-Taiba has much in common with the goals of Al Qaeda, terrorism experts say.

The New York Times

Yet he and many fellow-travellers adhere to a school of thought, influenced by Saudi Wahhabism among other currents, which holds the rival sect to be an elemental threat to Islam as a whole.Before their overthrow, Mr bin Laden's protectors in Afghanistan, the Taliban, mounted merciless pogroms against that country's Shia minority, the Hazara, on purely doctrinal grounds.

The Economist

Instead, according to these groups, the Christian essence was discernible in acts of piety, closeness to the fatherly heart of God as shown in the life of Jesus, and intimate communion with God on emotional or affective not cognitive, rational, or substantial (i.e., doctrinal)—grounds.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The letter did not stake out new doctrinal ground.

The New York Times

While he gives no ground on doctrinal issues, he also makes it clear that weakness is human.

The New York Times

At least on doctrinal matters, he will have no harsh words to recant.

The Economist

Although these Reformers differed on doctrinal matters, they shared a number of views.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on doctrinal grounds", ensure the context clearly establishes which doctrine is being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the religious or philosophical tradition.

Common error

Avoid using "on doctrinal grounds" loosely to mean simply 'based on beliefs'. The phrase is most appropriate when referring to formal, established sets of principles, not personal opinions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "on doctrinal grounds" is as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause by specifying the reason or basis for an action or decision. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase explains why something is happening.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on doctrinal grounds" is a prepositional phrase used to justify actions or beliefs based on established principles or doctrines. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and most appropriate in formal contexts like news, encyclopedias and academic discussions. When using the phrase, ensure you clearly define the specific doctrine to prevent ambiguity. Alternatives such as ""for doctrinal reasons"" or "based on doctrinal principles" can offer slight variations in emphasis. Remember to reserve "on doctrinal grounds" for situations where adherence to a formal, established doctrine is the key justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for doctrinal reasons

Replaces 'on grounds' with 'for reasons', offering a more concise alternative.

based on doctrinal principles

Emphasizes the foundation of the decision or belief in doctrinal principles.

due to doctrinal considerations

Highlights the factors that led to a decision.

according to doctrinal teachings

Focuses on adherence to specific teachings or tenets.

in accordance with doctrine

Suggests an alignment or conformity with established doctrine.

from a doctrinal perspective

Indicates a viewpoint that is rooted in doctrinal understanding.

on theological grounds

Specifies the basis as theological, focusing on religious doctrine.

on religious grounds

Broader, encompasses more than just doctrinal considerations, including general religious beliefs.

on matters of doctrine

Shifts the focus to the subject of doctrine itself.

within the framework of doctrine

Implies operating or understanding something within the established confines of a particular doctrine.

FAQs

What does "on doctrinal grounds" mean?

The phrase "on doctrinal grounds" means that a decision, belief, or action is based on the principles and teachings of a particular doctrine, typically within a religious or philosophical context.

How can I use "on doctrinal grounds" in a sentence?

You might say, "The council rejected the proposal "for doctrinal reasons", citing its conflict with established teachings."

What are some alternatives to saying "on doctrinal grounds"?

Alternatives include "based on doctrinal principles", ""for doctrinal reasons"", or "according to doctrinal teachings", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "on doctrinal grounds" formal or informal?

The phrase "on doctrinal grounds" is generally considered formal. In less formal contexts, you might opt for simpler alternatives like "based on our beliefs".