# dogma

/ˈdɑɡmə/ (US) · /dˈɒɡmɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dogma
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. unquestionable belief

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a belief or rule that people are expected to accept as true without any doubt or proof.

For teachers: an authoritative principle or statement of opinion, especially one considered to be indisputable regardless of evidence.

- The company's old dogma prevented them from trying new technology.
- Political dogma can sometimes blind leaders to the practical realities of the economic crisis they are trying to solve.

### 2. religious doctrine

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the official teachings of a church or religious group.

For teachers: a doctrine or body of doctrines concerning faith or morals formally stated and authoritatively proclaimed by a church.

- The priest explained the central dogma of the church to the new members.
- Scholars spent centuries debating the nuances of church dogma regarding the nature of the soul.

## Examples

- The political party refused to change its old dogma.
- The scientist was careful not to let personal dogma interfere with the results of the experiment.
- While the church maintains its core theological dogma, many modern practitioners seek to interpret these ancient tenets through the lens of contemporary social justice and scientific understanding.

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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.