Home › Religion & World Beliefs › Faith, Belief & Devotion › dogma

dogma

DOG-muh /ˈdɒɡ.mə/

nounC1GRESATGMATCAT

formalacademic

A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.

Often carries a critical tone today, suggesting uncritical acceptance or authoritarian imposition without evidence.

The story behind the word. From Greek 'dogma', originating from 'dokein' ('to seem' or 'to think good'). In classical Greece, it meant a philosophical opinion or decree; early church leaders adopted it for fixed theological truths that could not be challenged.

Word relationships

tenet: 'Tenet' is neutral and refers to a main principle, whereas 'dogma' carries a heavier implication of rigid enforcement.
doctrine: 'Doctrine' refers broadly to taught beliefs, whereas 'dogma' specifically refers to mandatory, unquestionable principles.

heresy: Belief or opinion contrary to orthodox doctrine.
doubt: A feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.

Commonly confused with

dogmatic: 'Dogma' is the noun (the belief itself), while 'dogmatic' is the adjective describing a person who aggressively asserts unproved principles.

Word family

dogmatic (adjective): Inclinable to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true.
dogmatism (noun): The tendency to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true.

Collocations

rigid dogma
religious dogma
political dogma
accept dogma

Example sentences

"Good scientists test hypotheses continuously rather than accepting long-held dogma." Scientific debate
"The church council met to clarify theological dogma and resolve internal debates." Religious history

Memory hook

A 'dog' following a strict master obeys without questioning the 'dog-ma'. Unquestioned, authoritative doctrine.

When not to use

Do not use 'dogma' for open-minded, flexible ideas or scientific hypotheses subject to revision.

Fun facts

In ancient Greece, philosophical schools each had their own 'dogmata'—which simply meant their core working theories!