Primitivism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Primitivism is an artistic and cultural movement that values simplicity, raw expression, and non-Western or ancient styles, often rejecting modern complexity in favor of more natural or instinctive forms.
Definition:
A belief in or practice of simple, unsophisticated, or uncivilized behavior, art, or style.
Synonyms:
barbarism, savagery, crudeness
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
sophistication, modernity
Common Collocations:
artistic primitivism, cultural primitivism, romantic primitivism
Derivatives:
primitive, primitivist
Usage Tips:
Use "primitivism" to describe art or lifestyles that reject complexity in favor of raw simplicity.
Common Phrases:
return to primitivism, embrace primitivism, reject primitivism
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "primitivus," meaning "first of its kind," combined with the suffix "-ism."
Examples:
- 1. The artist's work reflects a strong influence of primitivism.
- 2. Primitivism often rejects modern technology in favor of natural living.
- 3. Critics debated whether his style was true primitivism or just imitation.
- 4. Some tribes maintain a lifestyle rooted in cultural primitivism.