Orthodox Definition, Usage & Common Examples

Meaning 1：conventional (orthodox)

orthodox 🔊

/ˈɔːrθədɑːks/

adj.

Following the usual or traditional ways of thinking or doing things, as accepted by most people.

Orthodox concept illustrated by elder teaching child traditional board game in cozy setting

conventional 🔊

➕

/kənˈvɛnʃənl/

adj.

Describes something that conforms to long-established, traditional, or generally accepted beliefs, methods, or standards.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'orthos' (correct, right) + 'doxa' (opinion, praise), meaning 'holding correct opinions'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'ORTHOdontist' (straightens teeth) + 'DOXology' (hymn of praise). Orthodox 'straightens' opinions to align with traditional praise.

📖 Example

His approach to teaching is very orthodox, always using the same methods from the textbook. 🔊 His teaching methodology strictly adheres to conventional practices, consistently relying on textbook-prescribed techniques.

🔗 Collocations

orthodox view – A belief or opinion that aligns with established tradition or authority.

orthodox medicine – Mainstream, scientifically accepted medical treatment, as opposed to alternative therapies.

Orthodox Judaism – A branch of Judaism that strictly observes traditional religious law and interpretation.

🔄 Synonyms

traditional (adj.) – Based on long-established customs or beliefs.

conventional (adj.) – Following accepted standards; ordinary rather than different or original.

conservative (adj.) – Averse to change or innovation and holding traditional values.

🚫 Antonyms

unorthodox (adj.) – Contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted.

heretical (adj.) – Characterized by beliefs that seriously oppose established doctrines or opinions.

innovative (adj.) – Featuring new methods; advanced and original.

🌱 Derivatives

orthodoxy (n.) – The quality of conforming to orthodox, especially religious, doctrines or practices.

orthodoxly (adv.) – In a manner that conforms to established or traditional doctrines.

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from ecclesiastical Latin 'orthodoxus', from Greek 'orthodoxos'. Historically, it first described adherence to the established doctrines of a religion, specifically Eastern Orthodox Christianity. Its secular use for conventional or traditional views emerged in the 17th century.