four noble truths: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2academic, religious
Quick answer
What does “four noble truths” mean?
The foundational teachings of Buddhism describing the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The foundational teachings of Buddhism describing the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation.
The philosophical framework in Buddhism consisting of: 1) the truth of suffering, 2) the truth of the origin of suffering, 3) the truth of the cessation of suffering, and 4) the truth of the path leading to the cessation of suffering.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; both variants use the same terminology.
Connotations
Identical religious/philosophical connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally rare in general discourse but standard in religious/Buddhist studies contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “four noble truths” in a Sentence
The Four Noble Truths [teach/explain/reveal] [that...]According to [the] Four Noble Truths, [statement]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
In Buddhist philosophy courses, the Four Noble Truths are analyzed as a soteriological framework.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation except among Buddhists or in interfaith discussions.
Technical
In comparative religion texts, the Four Noble Truths are contrasted with other religious truth-claims.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “four noble truths”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “four noble truths”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “four noble truths”
- Using singular 'truth' (always plural)
- Omitting 'noble' (changes referent)
- Incorrect capitalization in specific reference
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are considered realistic and ultimately optimistic because they offer a clear path to end suffering.
Yes, they are universally accepted across all major Buddhist traditions as the Buddha's first teaching.
The truth of the path leading to the cessation of suffering, known as the Noble Eightfold Path.
Many find their psychological insights into suffering and attachment applicable regardless of religious belief.
The foundational teachings of Buddhism describing the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation.
Four noble truths is usually academic, religious in register.
Four noble truths: in British English it is pronounced /ˌfɔː ˌnəʊbəl ˈtruːθs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌfɔr ˌnoʊbəl ˈtruθs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
FOUR steps: 1) Suffering exists, 2) It has a cause, 3) It can end, 4) There's a path (the Noble Eightfold Path).
Conceptual Metaphor
TRUTH AS MEDICINE (diagnosis, cause, prognosis, treatment)
Practice
Quiz
Which is NOT one of the Four Noble Truths?