Translation guide
The English word 'doctrine' refers to a set of beliefs or principles held and taught by a group, often in religious, political, or philosophical contexts. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 教義 (きょうぎ) for religious doctrine, while 主義 (しゅぎ) is used for political or philosophical doctrines. Other terms like 教理 (きょうり) and 学説 (がくせつ) are used in more specific contexts.
A set of beliefs or teachings held by a religious group.
The standard term for religious doctrine, used across various religions.
キリスト教の教義を学ぶ。
I study Christian doctrine.
その教義は多くの信者に受け入れられている。
That doctrine is accepted by many believers.
Often used interchangeably with 教義, but can imply a more systematic or theological set of teachings.
教会の教理を守る。
I adhere to the church's doctrine.
A more general term for 'teachings', often used in a religious context but less formal than 教義.
仏陀の教えに従う。
I follow the Buddha's teachings.
A set of principles or beliefs forming the basis of a political or philosophical system.
Used as a suffix to form '-ism' words, indicating a doctrine or principle. Can also stand alone to mean 'doctrine' or 'principle'.
彼は共産主義を信奉している。
He adheres to the doctrine of communism.
その政策は自由主義に基づいている。
That policy is based on the doctrine of liberalism.
Can be used metaphorically for rigidly held political beliefs, similar to 'dogma'.
A loanword from English, used in academic or military contexts (e.g., 'military doctrine').
A theory or body of teachings accepted by scholars in a particular field.
Refers to an academic theory or doctrine, often in law, science, or philosophy.
その学説は広く支持されている。
That doctrine is widely supported.
Means 'theory', but can be used for a systematic doctrine in academic contexts.
A principle or set of principles held by an individual or group, not necessarily formalized.
Refers to one's personal creed or beliefs, often moral or ethical.
正直は私の信条です。
Honesty is my doctrine.
Can be used for personal principles, like 'my doctrine is to never give up'.
彼は早起きを主義としている。
He makes it his doctrine to wake up early.
教義 (きょうぎ) is the most common term for religious doctrine. 教理 (きょうり) is often used in Christian theology and implies a systematic body of teachings. 教え (おしえ) is a broader, less formal term for teachings, used across religions and even in non-religious contexts (e.g., a mentor's teachings).
In everyday conversation, using 教義 or 主義 might sound overly formal or rigid. Instead, use simpler terms like 考え方 (かんがえかた, way of thinking) or 信念 (しんねん, belief) when referring to personal principles.
私の考え方では、正直が一番大事です。
In my doctrine, honesty is most important. (natural: 'In my way of thinking...')
His political doctrine never changes.
We review the military doctrine.
I study economic doctrine.