Synonyms for

Heresy

Verb / ˈherʌsi: / Another word for heresy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Heresy means a belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious (especially Christian) doctrine.

Synonyms & similar words

unorthodoxy heterodoxy orthodoxy apostasy blasphemy dissent nonconformity unorthodoxy infidelity impiety irreverence schism sectarianism unbelief deviation noncompliance rejection defiance disbelief dissension dissidence heretical heterodoxy

Synonyms by register

Formal

unorthodoxy heterodoxy nonconformity dissent

Informal

blasphemy sacrilege iconoclasm

Literary

apostasy profanity impiety

Antonyms

orthodoxy conformity acceptance belief faith doctrine orthopraxy

Common collocations

  • religious heresy
  • political heresy
  • scientific heresy
  • accused of heresy
  • doctrine of heresy
  • fight heresy
  • combat heresy
  • denounce heresy

Word family

noun heresy
adjective heretical

Usage note

Heresy typically refers to beliefs or opinions contrary to established religious dogma, but it can also be used more broadly for any belief that deviates from accepted norms or doctrines, especially in politics or science. It often carries a strong negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The man was accused of heresy because he did not believe in the teachings of the church.
  2. The priest warned the congregation of the dangers of heresy.
  3. The woman was excommunicated from the church for heresy.
  4. The church has a zero-tolerance policy towards heresy.
  5. The Inquisition was established to combat heresy.

Quotes

  • “The only way to deal with heresy is to fall in love with it.” - Dorothy L. Sayers
  • “Heresy is only another word for freedom of thought.” - Graham Greene
  • “Heresy is the life of a mythology, and orthodoxy is the death.” - Jiddu Krishnamurti

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