English Reference

Word

separatism

Phoneticssep·a·ratism

US/ˈsɛpɝəˌtɪzəm/

UK/sˈɛpəɹətˌɪzəm/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the belief that a group of people should leave a larger country or organization to form their own. It often involves political or social independence.

n. the advocacy of the separation of a country, region, or group from a larger political entity. Often involves the pursuit of self-governance or independence.

Examples

“The separatism movement grew stronger after the new law was passed.”

“The government struggled to manage the separatism in the northern provinces, where many citizens demanded a referendum on independence.”

“While some view separatism as a legitimate expression of cultural identity, others argue it threatens the stability and unity of the nation-state.”

Examples

simple

“The separatism movement grew stronger after the new law was passed.”

contextual

“The government struggled to manage the separatism in the northern provinces, where many citizens demanded a referendum on independence.”

complex

“While some view separatism as a legitimate expression of cultural identity, others argue it threatens the stability and unity of the nation-state.”

Real-World Examples

“Vox initially built its support around staunch opposition to Catalan separatism but has increasingly made opposition to immigration a central part of its platform.”
The Local 7 Oct 2026
“Many felt that as Ukraine's richest man Mr Akhmetov should have done more from the very beginning to stamp out separatism fuelled by Russia in his home region.”
BBC News 3 Jan 2023

Word family

This entry

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
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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