doctrinaire

Group 26Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Seeking to impose a doctrine in all circumstances without regard to practical considerations
GRE

Example in Context

The party's doctrinaire approach to fiscal policy left it unable to adapt to the rapidly changing economic landscape.

Synonyms

rigiddogmaticinflexible

Etymology

A rigid adherence to teachings, ignoring real-world complexities.

  • doctrina (Latin) — teaching

Memory Aid

🚂Sounds like “dock train air

The DOCK TRAIN AIR was so DOCTRINAIRE, it only followed one boring route!

Visual Association

📜A scroll tightly rolled up, representing inflexible rules and doctrines.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “doctrinaire” mean on the GRE?

doctrinaire (adjective) means “Seeking to impose a doctrine in all circumstances without regard to practical considerations”. The party's doctrinaire approach to fiscal policy left it unable to adapt to the rapidly changing economic landscape.

How to remember “doctrinaire” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “doctrinaire” sounds like “dock train air”. The DOCK TRAIN AIR was so DOCTRINAIRE, it only followed one boring route!

What are synonyms for “doctrinaire”?

Common synonyms: rigid, dogmatic, inflexible.