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Civilizing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Civilizing refers to the process of making a society or group more advanced, cultured, or refined by introducing education, laws, or social norms. It implies improving behavior and organization.

civilizing

/ˈsɪvəˌlaɪzɪŋ/ /ˈsɪvɪlaɪzɪŋ/

Definition:

Bringing culture, refinement, or social organization to a less developed society or group.

Synonyms:

educating, enlightening, refining, cultivating

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb (present participle)

Antonyms:

barbarizing, degrading

Common Collocations:

civilizing mission, civilizing influence, civilizing process

Derivatives:

civilization, civilized, civilizer

Usage Tips:

Use "civilizing" to describe actions or influences that promote cultural or social advancement.

Common Phrases:

civilizing mission, civilizing force, civilizing effect

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "civilis," meaning relating to citizens or the state; entered English via French "civiliser."

Examples:

  • 1. The missionaries believed their work had a civilizing effect on the tribe.
  • 2. Education plays a key role in the civilizing process of any society.
  • 3. Some argue that colonization was justified as a civilizing mission.
  • 4. The novel explores the clash between modern and traditional civilizing values.

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