# doctrinal

/ˈdɑktɹənəɫ/ (US) · /dɒktɹˈaɪnəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/doctrinal
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

relating to a set of official beliefs or rules, especially in a religion or a political group. You use this to describe ideas that are considered official and must be followed.

For teachers: relating to a system of beliefs or principles, especially those established by an authority within a religious or political institution. Often used to describe the formal teaching of a church or the official policy of a state.

## Examples

- The church has strict doctrinal rules.
- The new policy was criticized for being too doctrinal, as it left no room for local leaders to make their own decisions.
- The theologian spent his career reconciling the ancient texts with the modern world, arguing that doctrinal rigidity was no longer compatible with contemporary social values.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.