social imperialism
- noun
- /ˈsoʊʃəl ɪmˈpɪəriəlɪzəm/
- Specialized
- Many argue that social imperialism can lead to the erosion of local traditions and cultures.
Examples
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Activists are working to combat social imperialism by promoting and preserving indigenous cultures.
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The film critic highlighted how social imperialism often shapes the narratives seen in mainstream media.
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So I mean, social imperialism is part of a scene by, you know, by sort of the economic cannon.
Synonyms
Power of one country or group over others
A powerful country that uses money, trade or political power to control poorer countries
Antonyms
A way for people from different cultures to share ideas, traditions, and customs
Knowledge and respect for cultural differences that helps people live or work together
How Dominant
Surface Forms
Morphology
The phrase is compositionally built from 'social' (relating to society or culture) modifying 'imperialism' (extension of power or dominance), so its meaning as imperialism applied to social or cultural life is directly inferable. This straightforward adjective+noun pattern is common across languages and follows normal semantic modification, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents should grasp the intended sense.
Etymology
Social imperialism links social (everyday life and culture) and imperialism (rule by a stronger country). Imagine a stronger country sending its language, schools, and TV into smaller places so local customs are pushed aside, and that's why the term means 'the spread and control of one culture over others'.