Reading Theme:
Religion Definition, Types & Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：organized belief system (religion)
religion
/rɪˈlɪdʒ.ən/
n.
A set of beliefs and practices about a god or gods, usually with rules, ceremonies, and a community of followers.
organized belief system
➕
/ˈɔːrɡənaɪzd bɪˈliːf ˈsɪstəm/
n.
A structured system of beliefs, practices, and moral codes centered around a deity or deities, often involving rituals and a community of followers.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'religio' (reverence), from 're-' (again) + 'ligare' (to bind).
💡 Mnemonic
Think 're-lig-ion' = 're-connect' with the divine; the 'lig' binds you like a ligament to your faith.
📖 Example
The museum has a special section that explores art and traditions from different religions around the world.
The museum has a special section that explores art and traditions from different religions around the world.
🔗 Collocations
organized religion – a religion with formal structures, leaders, and doctrines
practice a religion – to follow the beliefs and rituals of a particular faith
freedom of religion – the right to choose and practice any faith without interference
🔄 Synonyms
faith (n.) – a strong belief in a particular deity or spiritual doctrine
creed (n.) – a formal statement of religious beliefs or principles
denomination (n.) – a distinct subgroup within a religion, often with its own name and practices
🚫 Antonyms
atheism (n.) – the lack of belief in any god or gods
agnosticism (n.) – the view that the existence of God is unknown or unknowable
secularism (n.) – the principle of separating religious institutions from state institutions
🌱 Derivatives
religious (adj.) – relating to or believing in a religion
religiously (adv.) – in a faithful or devoted manner
religionist (n.) – a person who is strongly devoted to a religion
📖 Cultural Story
The English word 'religion' derives from Latin 'religio', used by Cicero to mean 'reverence for the gods'. It evolved through Old French into English, denoting a system of faith and worship.
Meaning 2：guiding conviction (religion)
religion
/rɪˈlɪdʒ.ən/
n.
A strong personal belief in something that guides your life and choices, like a deep commitment to an idea or way of living.
guiding conviction
➕
/ˈɡaɪdɪŋ kənˈvɪkʃən/
n.
A deeply ingrained belief or principle that a person treats with the same seriousness and devotion as a formal religious faith, influencing their actions and life choices.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
For her, environmental protection is more than a hobby; it's a religion, guiding every decision she makes.
For her, protecting the environment is not just a pastime; it is a guiding philosophy that influences all her choices.
🔗 Collocations
make a religion of something – to treat a particular activity or principle with extreme devotion and regularity
follow something as a religion – to adhere to a principle or habit with unwavering commitment
raise something to a religion – to elevate a personal belief or activity to the status of a guiding faith
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
indifference (n.) – lack of interest, concern, or sympathy
apathy (n.) – lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
skepticism (n.) – an attitude of doubt or a disposition to question assertions
🌱 Derivatives
religious (adj.) – extremely scrupulous or conscientious in a particular activity
religiously (adv.) – with consistent and devoted regularity
religionist (n.) – a person who treats a cause or activity with extreme commitment
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser