antinomianism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowFormal, Academic, Theological
Quick answer
What does “antinomianism” mean?
The theological belief that faith alone is necessary for salvation and that moral laws are not binding for Christians.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The theological belief that faith alone is necessary for salvation and that moral laws are not binding for Christians.
More broadly, any doctrine or stance that rejects established moral, religious, or societal laws in favour of personal faith, inspiration, or individual liberty.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in spelling, meaning, or usage.
Connotations
In both varieties, carries a strong negative connotation when used by critics, implying dangerous moral license or heresy. Within specific theological discourse, it may be a neutral descriptive term.
Frequency
Extremely rare in everyday language, limited almost exclusively to academic religious studies, theology, and historical writing in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “antinomianism” in a Sentence
the antinomianism of [group/thinker]antinomianism in [century/theology]accusations of antinomianism against [someone]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “antinomianism” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cleric was expelled for his antinomian teachings on sin and redemption.
American English
- Critics dismissed the movement as promoting an antinomian lifestyle.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, and history departments to discuss heretical movements, the Reformation, or critiques of ethical systems.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
A precise term in systematic theology and church history.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “antinomianism”
- Misspelling as 'antinominanism' or 'antinomiannism'.
- Using it as a general synonym for 'rebellion' without its specific theological roots.
- Confusing it with 'agnosticism' or 'antinatalism' due to the 'anti-' prefix.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It derives from the Greek 'anti-' (against) and 'nomos' (law), entering English in the 16th century during Protestant theological debates.
No, it is generally considered a historical heresy. Mainstream Christian denominations reject it, though some critics may accuse certain interpretations of 'grace alone' doctrines of leading to antinomian conclusions.
Yes, though rarely. It can be applied metaphorically to describe any philosophy or attitude that fundamentally rejects conventional rules or laws, e.g., in art or politics.
Antinomianism is a principled, doctrinal rejection of the authority or necessity of moral law, often based on faith or higher insight. Simple law-breaking is an action that may not be motivated by such a foundational belief.
Antinomianism is usually formal, academic, theological in register.
Antinomianism: in British English it is pronounced /ˌæn.tɪˈnəʊ.mi.ə.nɪ.zəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌæn.t̬ɪˈnoʊ.mi.ə.nɪ.zəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Break it down: ANTI (against) + NOMOS (Greek for 'law') + ISM (belief system) = a belief system against the law.
Conceptual Metaphor
MORAL LAW IS A BURDEN/CHAIN; antinomianism is the throwing off of chains.
Practice
Quiz
In its core theological sense, what does antinomianism primarily reject?