ENGLISH
REFERENCE

xenophobic

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˌzɛnəˈfɑbɪk// UK //zˌɛnəfˈəʊbɪk// xeno·pho·bic

adj. showing a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries.

adj. characterised by an intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries. Often used to describe political rhetoric, social attitudes, or specific legislative policies.


SIMPLE

The politician was criticized for his xenophobic comments about immigrants.

CONTEXTUAL

Human rights groups warned that the new border policy could encourage xenophobic attacks against foreign workers.

COMPLEX

Sociologists argue that xenophobic sentiments often intensify during economic downturns as local populations seek scapegoats for their financial anxieties.

Origin

From xeno- + -phobic, from Ancient Greek ξένος (xénos, “foreign, strange”) + φόβος (phóbos, “fear”).

Usage

Typically used to describe people, attitudes, or policies; often appears after linking verbs like 'become' or 'remain'.

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