hinduism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal
Quick answer
What does “hinduism” mean?
A major world religion and dharmic tradition originating in the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a belief in dharma (duty/righteousness), karma, reincarnation, and a diverse pantheon of deities.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A major world religion and dharmic tradition originating in the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a belief in dharma (duty/righteousness), karma, reincarnation, and a diverse pantheon of deities.
The complex socio-religious system, philosophy, culture, and way of life practised by Hindus, encompassing diverse beliefs, rituals, scriptures (like the Vedas and Upanishads), and practices such as yoga, meditation, and pilgrimage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or usage differences. Pronunciation differences follow general UK/US patterns for the 'i' and final 'ism'.
Connotations
Usage and connotations are identical, relating to the religion and culture. Frequency of discussion may be slightly higher in UK contexts due to a larger South Asian diaspora.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in UK English in everyday contexts due to demographic factors, but equally common in academic and interfaith discourse in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “hinduism” in a Sentence
N/A (Proper noun, abstract concept, does not take objects)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hinduism” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A - No direct verb form.
American English
- N/A - No direct verb form.
adverb
British English
- N/A - No direct adverb form.
American English
- N/A - No direct adverb form.
adjective
British English
- She is studying Hindu philosophy.
- We attended a Hindu wedding ceremony.
American English
- He follows Hindu teachings.
- The temple is an important Hindu site.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in contexts like cultural sensitivity training, international marketing, or discussions of holidays.
Academic
Very common in religious studies, anthropology, history, and philosophy. Used with precision to describe doctrines, history, and practices.
Everyday
Used in general conversation about religion, culture, and world affairs.
Technical
Used in specific theological, historical, or sociological discussions within religious studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hinduism”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hinduism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hinduism”
- Incorrect: 'He believes in a Hinduism.' (Better: 'He practises Hinduism.')
- Incorrect: 'Hinduisms are diverse.' (Uncountable; use 'forms/branches of Hinduism are diverse.')
- Incorrect spelling: 'Hinduishm', 'Hindusim'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is complex. While many deities are worshipped, many Hindu schools of thought view them as manifestations of a single, supreme ultimate reality (Brahman), making it henotheistic or monistic rather than strictly polytheistic.
There is no single holy book. Hinduism has a large body of sacred texts. The oldest and most authoritative are the Vedas, but others like the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Puranas, and epics (Ramayana, Mahabharata) are also highly revered.
No. 'Indian' refers to nationality or origin from India. 'Hindu' refers to an adherent of Hinduism. Not all Indians are Hindu (many are Muslim, Christian, Sikh, etc.), and not all Hindus are Indian (there are significant diaspora populations worldwide).
The term derives from the Sanskrit 'Sindhu', the name of the Indus River. It was used by Persians and later others to refer to the people and culture of the Indus River region, eventually becoming associated with the dominant religion of that land.
A major world religion and dharmic tradition originating in the Indian subcontinent, characterized by a belief in dharma (duty/righteousness), karma, reincarnation, and a diverse pantheon of deities.
Hinduism is usually formal in register.
Hinduism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈhɪn.duː.ɪ.zəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈhɪn.du.ɪ.zəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “N/A (No common idioms directly incorporate the word 'Hinduism')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
HINDUism is the religion of the HINDU people, primarily in INDIA.
Conceptual Metaphor
HINDUISM IS A PATH/JOURNEY (e.g., 'the path of Hinduism', 'a spiritual journey within Hinduism'). HINDUISM IS A TAPESTRY (representing its diversity of beliefs and practices).
Practice
Quiz
Which of these is a core concept in Hinduism?