Words / C1

in-DOKTR-in-ayt/ɪnˈdɒktrɪneɪt/

To indoctrinate is to teach a set of beliefs uncritically, especially political or religious ones: indoctrinate a cohort, resist being indoctrinated. Belief (already in the dictionary) is the content; instruct is neutral teaching. A creed is not a codebook.

Meaning

To teach a set of beliefs uncritically, especially political or religious ones.

Examples

• “Do not indoctrinate the cohort with a creed in place of a codebook.”
• “Instruct is neutral. Brainwash is hotter and informal. A creed is a slogan. A codebook is methods. Name the variables; keep the creed off the briefing.”

Good to know

Teach a belief uncritically. Neutral twin: instruct. A creed ≠ a codebook.

Near in meaning

brainwash, instruct, propagandise

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