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Heretic

🇬🇧 UK //ˈhɛr.ə.tɪk// 🇺🇸 US //ˈhɛr.ɪ.tɪk//

Meaning of Heretic

A person who holds beliefs contrary to the official doctrine of a religion.

In simple words: A person who believes or practices ideas that oppose the main religious beliefs.

Heretic in a sentence

• The ancient philosopher was labeled a heretic for questioning traditional beliefs.
• Many heretics were persecuted during the Inquisition for their divergent views.
• She was considered a heretic by her peers for advocating new interpretations of sacred texts.
• The heretic boldly preached his ideas in a society that valued conformity.
• Historically, being a heretic could lead to severe punishments, including exile.

How to use Heretic

Used mainly in religious contexts, may carry a negative connotation. Rarely used outside theological discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'hair-etic' - think of someone with unconventional hair who challenges old norms.

Related words

Collocations with Heretic

• accused heretic
• famous heretic
• heretic beliefs
• heretic activities
• heretic writings

Synonyms for Heretic

• dissenter
• nonconformist
• rebel
• skeptic
• iconoclast

Opposites of Heretic

• believer
• conformist
• follower

Common mistakes with Heretic

• Confused with 'heretical' - one is a noun, the other is an adjective.
• Used incorrectly to describe non-religious views.
• Assumed to only refer to Christians, but applies to other faiths as well.

Frequently asked questions about Heretic

What does Heretic mean?

A person who believes or practices ideas that oppose the main religious beliefs.

What is the definition of Heretic?

A person who holds beliefs contrary to the official doctrine of a religion.

How do you use Heretic in a sentence?

The ancient philosopher was labeled a heretic for questioning traditional beliefs.

Can you give another example of Heretic?

Many heretics were persecuted during the Inquisition for their divergent views.

What are synonyms for Heretic?

Common alternatives include dissenter, nonconformist, rebel, skeptic, iconoclast.

What is the opposite of Heretic?

Opposite meanings include believer, conformist, follower.

What words go with Heretic?

It commonly pairs with accused heretic, famous heretic, heretic beliefs, heretic activities, heretic writings.

What are common mistakes when using Heretic?

Confused with 'heretical' - one is a noun, the other is an adjective. Used incorrectly to describe non-religious views. Assumed to only refer to Christians, but applies to other faiths as well.

How do you pronounce Heretic?

US: //ˈhɛr.ɪ.tɪk//, UK: //ˈhɛr.ə.tɪk//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Heretic formal or informal?

"Heretic" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Heretic?

Used mainly in religious contexts, may carry a negative connotation. Rarely used outside theological discussions.