Word
orthodoxy
Phoneticsor·tho·doxy
US/ˈɔɹθəˌdɑksi/
UK/ˈɔːθədˌɒksi/
Countable & uncountable
Definition
n. the traditional or generally accepted way of thinking or doing things. You use this when talking about ideas that most people in a group believe are correct.
n. adherence to accepted norms, creeds, or traditional beliefs, especially in religion or politics. Often refers to the established set of theories or practices within a specific field of study.
Examples
“The young scientist challenged the scientific orthodoxy of the time.”
“Challenging the economic orthodoxy of the decade required a level of political courage that few leaders possessed.”
“While the artist began her career within the strictures of classical orthodoxy, her later works represent a radical departure into abstract expressionism that baffled her former mentors.”
Examples
simple
“The young scientist challenged the scientific orthodoxy of the time.”
contextual
“Challenging the economic orthodoxy of the decade required a level of political courage that few leaders possessed.”
complex
“While the artist began her career within the strictures of classical orthodoxy, her later works represent a radical departure into abstract expressionism that baffled her former mentors.”
Usage
Uncountable when referring to the general state of adherence; countable when referring to a specific set of beliefs.
Real-World Examples
“As was medical orthodoxy at the time, her parents were not allowed to visit – but no one explained any of it to Mary.” “The region’s different nations have since continued to define themselves through distinct religious identities, including Catholicism, Orthodoxy and Islam, but also separate dialects and languages.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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