heretical

ADJECTIVE

//həˈrɛtɪkəl//

holding beliefs that go against the official teachings of a religion or church

💡 Concept

a determined scholar holds up a scroll while speaking passionately to a crowd of townspeople. His finger points upward as he presents ideas that contradict traditional church teachings. The church officials in ornate robes shake their heads disapprovingly and whisper among themselves. Their faces show anger and concern as they realize his teachings go against official doctrine. The gathered townspeople look torn between curiosity and fear as they witness this bold challenge. someone holding beliefs that go against the official teachings of a religion or church

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/həˈrɛtɪkəl/

🇬🇧 UK/həˈrɛtɪkəl/

🌳Etymology

Rootheret

Suffix--ical

Origin

From Greek 'hairetikos' meaning 'able to choose,' derived from 'hairein' (to choose). In early Christianity, it described those who 'chose' their own beliefs rather than following official church doctrine.

🎵Rhyme

theoreticalnumericalclerical

theoretical

numerical

clerical

🔗Collocations

heretical beliefs

heretical doctrine

heretical views

considered heretical

heretical teachings

branded as heretical

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“The professor's heretical suggestion that pineapple belongs on pizza divided the Italian department.”

“Her heretical interpretation of the ancient texts challenged centuries of theological scholarship.”

😄 Fun example

“In the gaming community, his heretical opinion that graphics don't matter sparked endless debates.”

“The scientist's heretical theory was initially rejected but later proved revolutionary.”

📚Related Words

Synonyms

blasphemousunorthodoxheterodoxsacrilegiousiconoclastic

Antonyms

orthodoxconventionaltraditional

hereticheresyapostasyschismsectarian

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heretical — holding beliefs that go against the official teachings of a religion or church

Example Sentences