Word
individualistic
Phoneticsin·di·vid·u·al·is·tic, stress on the sixth syllable
US/ˌɪndɪˌvɪdʒuəˈɫɪstɪk/
UK/ˌɪndɪvˌɪdʒuːəlˈɪstɪk/
Sociology
Definition
adj. describing someone who prefers to do things on their own rather than being part of a group. It also describes a society that values personal freedom and success over working together.
adj. relating to or characteristic of a person who values personal freedom and independence over group or social conformity. Often describes a cultural or political system that prioritises individual rights and achievements.
Examples
“He has an individualistic style that is very different from his friends.”
“The country has a highly individualistic culture where people are encouraged to start their own businesses and make their own decisions.”
“While some argue that individualistic societies foster innovation and personal responsibility, others claim they lead to social fragmentation and a lack of collective support for the vulnerable.”
Examples
simple
“He has an individualistic style that is very different from his friends.”
contextual
“The country has a highly individualistic culture where people are encouraged to start their own businesses and make their own decisions.”
complex
“While some argue that individualistic societies foster innovation and personal responsibility, others claim they lead to social fragmentation and a lack of collective support for the vulnerable.”
Real-World Examples
“She spent her childhood in Taiwan, which she describes as collectivistic, before settling for extended periods in the comparatively individualistic US and UK.” “There are many theories as to why, too many to unpack here; one memorable hypothesis points at a rise in individualistic, prosperity and gospel Pentecostalism at the expense of Catholicism in the team.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/individualistic