Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

received wisdom

Noun

/rɪˈsiːvd ˈwɪzdəm/

Definition

Beliefs or ideas that are generally accepted and taken for granted without question, often passed down through tradition or authority.

Examples

Many people believe in the received wisdom that success equates to wealth.
In science, it’s essential to challenge received wisdom to foster innovation.
Despite the received wisdom about a particular diet, new studies challenge its effectiveness.

Meaning

Received wisdom refers to knowledge or beliefs that people assume are true because they have been widely accepted over time, rather than because they have been critically examined or proven.