Definition of Indoctrinate
Quick Meaning of Indoctrinate
To teach someone to believe something without questioning it. Usually has a negative connotation—the teaching is biased or forced.
Detailed Definition of Indoctrinate
To teach someone to accept a belief or system of beliefs uncritically and unquestioningly, often implying coercion or manipulation.
How to Pronounce Indoctrinate
Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: in-DOK-tri-nayt. The first syllable is 'in', the second 'dok' is stressed, 'tri' is quick, and the final syllable sounds like 'ate'.
Watch out: Learners may stress the first or third syllable, or mispronounce 'nate' as 'nait'. Correct: in-DOK-tri-nayt (second syllable stressed, final syllable like 'ate').
Origin and Etymology of Indoctrinate
From Latin 'in-' (into) + 'doctrina' (teaching, doctrine, from 'docere' meaning to teach). Entered English in 17th century with religious connotations.
How to Use Indoctrinate in a Sentence
Each example shows “indoctrinate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Totalitarian regimes indoctrinate citizens through state-controlled education systems.”
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“Critics argue the program indoctrinated members rather than encouraging independent thought.”
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“Researchers examine how extremist groups indoctrinate recruits through isolation and propaganda.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Indoctrinate
Common Synonyms for Indoctrinate
Smart Synonyms for Indoctrinate — When to Use Each
- brainwash
- Stronger; implies more aggressive manipulation and control
- condition
- Psychological term; emphasizes habitual response formation
- educate
- Antonym; implies critical thinking and balanced learning
Common Collocations with Indoctrinate
These phrases pair with “indoctrinate” in everyday English:
- indoctrinate citizens
- indoctrinate members
- indoctrinate recruits
- indoctrination process
Common Mistakes When Using Indoctrinate
Even fluent speakers slip up with “indoctrinate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: Teachers indoctrinate new subjects to students.
- ✓ Correct: Teachers indoctrinate students with new ideas. / Teachers indoctrinate students into accepting new doctrines.
- Why: 'Indoctrinate' takes the person as object, not the belief. Use 'with' or 'into' for the belief.
- ✗ Wrong: The program indoctrinated him about democracy.
- ✓ Correct: The program indoctrinated him against critical thinking about democracy. / The program promoted critical thinking about democracy.
- Why: 'Indoctrinate about' is incorrect; use 'indoctrinate into/with' or choose a neutral verb like 'taught/educated'.
- ✗ Wrong: We should indoctrinate our children with good values.
- ✓ Correct: We should teach our children good values. / We should educate our children about good values.
- Why: 'Indoctrinate' implies suppressing critical thought; use 'teach' or 'educate' for neutral instruction.
Other Forms of Indoctrinate
- Noun: indoctrination
- Verb: indoctrinate
- Adjective: indoctrinated
Frequently Asked Questions About Indoctrinate
What is the meaning of "Indoctrinate"?
To teach someone to believe something without questioning it. Usually has a negative connotation—the teaching is biased or forced.
How do you pronounce "Indoctrinate"?
The IPA is /ɪnˈdɒktrɪneɪt/. Stress the second syllable: in-DOK-tri-nayt. The first syllable is 'in', the second 'dok' is stressed, 'tri' is quick, and the final syllable sounds like 'ate'.
What part of speech is "Indoctrinate"?
"Indoctrinate" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Indoctrinate"?
Common synonyms include brainwash, condition, propagandize.
How do you use "Indoctrinate" in a sentence?
For example: "Totalitarian regimes indoctrinate citizens through state-controlled education systems."