Doctrinally

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that pertains to the established beliefs or principles embraced by a particular group, especially in religious or philosophical spheres, this term indicates a commitment to those doctrines
2. Describing an approach that aligns closely with formal teachings or ideologies, it highlights a strict adherence to prescribed beliefs prevalent in religions or philosophies
3. In a manner that relates to the accepted beliefs of a specific group, particularly concerning religious or philosophical views, the term signifies loyalty to those established doctrines

Etymology: "Doctrinally" is a plain formation: the adjective "doctrinal" with the adverbial ending "-ly" added. The adjective "doctrinal" comes from "doctrine," which itself traces back to Latin "doctrina," meaning teaching or instruction, and ultimately to "doctor," a teacher. The adverbial ending descends from Old English "-līce," a suffix that turned adjectives into adverbs and that was originally a derivative of the word for body or form, so the same ending is found across the Germanic languages. Because "-ly" is still productive in English, new adverbs like this one can be made almost at will. "Doctrinally" simply describes doing something in line with a body of accepted teachings, whether that teaching is religious, philosophical, or political. The word therefore adds no new root of its own; its meaning comes entirely from the adjective it is built on.

Synonyms: theologically, philosophically