nondenominational
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Not restricted to or associated with any specific religious denomination; open to or involving people from various religious groups.
Usage
The adjective "nondenominational" describes institutions, organizations, events, or activities that are not formally affiliated with a single, specific religious denomination. It emphasizes inclusivity and a broader spiritual or religious approach.
Examples
- The university is nondenominational and welcomes students of all faiths.
- They were married in a nondenominational ceremony that incorporated traditions from both their backgrounds.
- The charity is a nondenominational organization focused on helping the community, regardless of religious belief.
Advanced Usage
- Nondenominational can sometimes imply a Christian context that is intentionally interdenominational (e.g., involving Baptists, Methodists, Catholics) rather than strictly secular.
- It is often used in contrast to terms like "parochial" (relating to a parish) or "denominational," which indicate a specific affiliation.
Variants and Related Words
- Interdenominational (adj): Relating to or involving different religious denominations. While similar, "interdenominational" often suggests cooperation distinct groups, whereas "nondenominational" suggests a lack of affiliation from the start.
- Nonsectarian (adj): Not involving or relating to different sects or groups, especially within a religion; very similar in meaning to "nondenominational."
Synonyms
- Ecumenical: Promoting unity among different Christian churches; can be broader than "nondenominational."
- Unbiased: (In a religious context) Not favoring one group over another.
- Inclusive: Open to everyone, without religious restrictions.
Antonyms
- Denominational: Relating to a particular religious denomination.
- Sectarian: Concerning a particular sect or group, often with connotations of narrow-mindedness.
- Parochial: Relating to a church parish; having a limited or narrow outlook.
Adjective
- not restricted to a particular religious denomination
- a nondenominational church