Word
ethnic group
Definition
compound. a group of people who share the same culture, language, or history.
compound. a category of people who identify with each other based on shared attributes that distinguish them from other groups, such as a common set of traditions, ancestry, language, or social treatment.
Examples
“The city is home to many different ethnic groups.”
“Researchers studied how different ethnic groups in the region maintained their traditional cooking styles over several generations.”
“The census provides vital data on the socio-economic status of various ethnic groups, helping the government allocate resources to underserved communities.”
Examples
simple
“The city is home to many different ethnic groups.”
contextual
“Researchers studied how different ethnic groups in the region maintained their traditional cooking styles over several generations.”
complex
“The census provides vital data on the socio-economic status of various ethnic groups, helping the government allocate resources to underserved communities.”
Usage
countable noun; often used in sociological, political, or demographic contexts.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'race', which often focuses on physical traits, whereas 'ethnic group' emphasizes shared culture and heritage.
Pitfall
He belongs to an ethics group.
He belongs to an ethnic group.
learners often confuse the adjective 'ethnic' (related to culture) with the noun 'ethics' (related to moral principles).
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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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