Tokenism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Tokenism refers to the practice of making only a symbolic effort, such as including a few individuals from underrepresented groups, to give the appearance of equality without real commitment or change.
Definition:
The practice of making only a symbolic effort, often to give the appearance of inclusion or fairness.
Synonyms:
symbolism, gesture, pretense, formality
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
genuine inclusion, substantive action
Common Collocations:
tokenism in hiring, accused of tokenism, avoid tokenism, perceived as tokenism
Derivatives:
tokenistic, tokenistically
Usage Tips:
Use "tokenism" to criticize superficial efforts that lack real commitment to diversity or equality.
Common Phrases:
empty gesture, box-ticking exercise, lip service
Etymology:
Derived from "token," meaning a symbol or sign, with the suffix "-ism" indicating a practice or ideology.
Examples:
- 1. The company was accused of tokenism after hiring just one diverse candidate.
- 2. Her promotion felt like tokenism rather than recognition of her skills.
- 3. Tokenism undermines real progress toward workplace equality.
- 4. Critics called the policy mere tokenism without meaningful change.