ENGLISH
REFERENCE

gospels

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɑspəɫz// UK //ɡˈɒspəlz// gospels

n. the first four books of the New Testament in the Bible that tell the story of Jesus. People also use the word to describe something they believe is completely true.

n. the four biblical narratives of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When used figuratively, refers to a set of principles or a statement of absolute truth.


SIMPLE

The priest read a passage from the gospels.

CONTEXTUAL

Scholars often compare the four gospels to understand the different historical perspectives on early Christian teachings.

COMPLEX

While the synoptic gospels share many structural similarities, the Gospel of John offers a distinct theological framework that has influenced centuries of Western philosophy and art.

Synonyms
Usage

Usually capitalised when referring to the specific biblical books; takes plural verb agreement.

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