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Tribalism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Tribalism is the strong loyalty people feel toward their own social group, often leading to favoritism or hostility toward outsiders. It can shape identity, politics, and cultural conflicts.

tribalism

/ˈtraɪbəˌlɪzəm/ /ˈtraɪbəlɪzəm/

Definition:

Strong loyalty to one's own social group, often leading to conflict with others.

Synonyms:

Sectarianism, factionalism, clannishness, partisanship

Part of Speech:

Noun

Antonyms:

Universalism, cosmopolitanism

Common Collocations:

Political tribalism, cultural tribalism, rise of tribalism, overcome tribalism

Derivatives:

Tribalist, tribalistic

Usage Tips:

Use "tribalism" to describe divisive group loyalty in politics or society; avoid overgeneralizing it to all group identities.

Common Phrases:

"Us vs them mentality, " "tribal warfare, " "break down tribalism"

Etymology:

Derived from "tribe," from Latin "tribus," referring to social divisions in ancient Rome.

Examples:

  • 1. Tribalism often divides communities along ethnic lines.
  • 2. Modern politics sometimes reflects deep-seated tribalism.
  • 3. Sports fans can exhibit harmless tribalism during games.
  • 4. Tribalism undermines cooperation in diverse workplaces.

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