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Agnostic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Agnostic refers to someone who believes the existence of God or ultimate truths is unknown or unknowable. It can also describe a neutral stance on any disputed matter.

agnostic

/æɡˈnɑstɪk/ /æɡˈnɒstɪk/

Definition:

Someone who believes the existence of God or ultimate truth is unknown or unknowable.

Synonyms:

skeptic, doubter, unbeliever

Part of Speech:

noun, adjective

Antonyms:

believer, theist

Common Collocations:

agnostic viewpoint, agnostic approach, agnostic position

Derivatives:

agnosticism, agnostically

Usage Tips:

Use "agnostic" to describe someone uncertain about religious beliefs or as an adjective for neutrality in other contexts (e.g., "platform-agnostic").

Common Phrases:

agnostic about, technologically agnostic, religiously agnostic

Etymology:

From Greek "agnōstos," meaning "unknown," coined by Thomas Huxley in the 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. She identifies as agnostic rather than atheist.
  • 2. His agnostic views make him open to all religious discussions.
  • 3. The software is device-agnostic and works on any platform.
  • 4. Many scientists remain agnostic about the origins of the universe.

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