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collectivism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /kəˈlɛktɪˌvɪzəm/

KK: /kəˈlɛktɪˌvɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A belief or system where the ownership and control of resources and production are managed by a group of people rather than individuals, often with government involvement.


Example

Collectivism promotes the idea that the community should work together for the common good.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about the idea of collectivism in society?
Sloth B
Yeah, I find it interesting how it emphasizes group ownership and cooperation.
Sloth A
Right? It seems like it could lead to more equality among people.
Sloth B
Definitely! But I wonder if it would work well in practice.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
socialism
communism
cooperativism
Antonyms
individualism
capitalism
privatization
Root Explanation

Collectivism → It is formed from "collect" (from Latin "colligere", meaning to gather together) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a practice or philosophy). The word "collectivism" refers to a political or economic theory advocating collective control over production and resources.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gathering together' ('collect') as a way to remember that collectivism is about shared control and ownership.

Visually Confused Words
theocollectivism
electivism
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