opposition to separation of church and state

/ˌɒpəˈzɪʃən tuː ˌsɛpəˈreɪʃən əv tʃɜːtʃ ænd steɪt/
phrase★Intermediate
◆ What It Really Means
The belief that religious and governmental institutions should not be kept strictly separate, often implying that one should influence the other.
Literal Meaning
The act of disagreeing with the idea that religious and governmental institutions should be kept apart.
Literal Breakdown
oppositiondisagreement+separationthe act of dividing+churcha religious institution+statethe government
◇ Mental Image
The mental picture of two distinct entities (religion and government) being intertwined or overlapping, rather than being kept separate.
◈ When to Use
A political debate where a candidate argues that religious values should guide public policy, thereby opposing the strict separation of church and state.
◉ Cultural Note
This concept is particularly relevant in countries with a history of religious influence on governance, such as the United States, where the First Amendment addresses this issue.
⚖️Law
formal

The stance or belief that the principle of separating religious institutions from governmental institutions should not be upheld, often advocating for government involvement in religious matters or vice versa.

Some political groups advocate for opposition to separation of church and state, arguing that religious values should influence public policy.

Certain religious leaders oppose the separation of church and state, believing that moral laws should be derived from scripture.

💡

This concept is often debated in constitutional law and political theory, particularly in countries with established secular governance.

Collocations

advocate for opposition to separation of church and stateto support the idea that religion and government should not be strictly separatedchallenge the separation of church and stateto argue against the principle of keeping religion and government distinct

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

establishment clausephrase
the constitutional provision prohibiting the government from establishing an official religion
free exercise clausephrase
the constitutional provision protecting individuals' right to practice their religion

💡Pro Tip

Legal Context

This phrase is often discussed in the context of constitutional law, particularly in debates about the First Amendment in the U.S.

⚡Gold Rule

Neutrality in Legal Discourse

When discussing this topic, it's important to recognize that it involves complex legal and ethical considerations, and different societies may have varying interpretations.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the historical and legal debates over the role of religion in government, particularly in the context of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in discussions about constitutional law, religious freedom, and the role of government in moral or ethical matters.

Word Breakdown

opposition
disagreement or resistance
root
+
separation
the act of dividing or keeping apart
root
+
church
a religious institution or community
root
+
state
the government or political entity
root
English Dictionary