Word
colonialism
Phoneticscolo·nial·ism
US/kəˈɫoʊniəˌɫɪzəm/
UK/kəlˈəʊnɪəlˌɪzəm/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the practice of one country taking control of other lands and people, often to use their resources. It usually involves moving people from the powerful country to live in the new territory.
n. the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.
Examples
“Many nations in Africa and Asia gained independence from European colonialism.”
“The history of the region is deeply marked by the legacy of colonialism and the struggle for self-determination.”
“Scholars often examine how the structures of colonialism persisted long after formal independence, influencing modern economic and social hierarchies across the globe.”
Examples
simple
“Many nations in Africa and Asia gained independence from European colonialism.”
contextual
“The history of the region is deeply marked by the legacy of colonialism and the struggle for self-determination.”
complex
“Scholars often examine how the structures of colonialism persisted long after formal independence, influencing modern economic and social hierarchies across the globe.”
Usage
Uncountable in its general sense; can be used with 'of' to specify the colonizing power.
Real-World Examples
“Nell and her family – especially her sister’s secret relationship with the (white) neighbourhood policeman – demonstrate the forces of racism and colonialism at work.” “Its blended heritage, he explains, points a way past the trauma that colonialism, racism, dictatorship and terrorism have inflicted on his country.” Etymology
From colonial + -ism.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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