Definition

The practice of not allowing certain people or groups to participate or belong, often to maintain a sense of superiority or uniqueness.

Example

The school's exclusivism led to a lack of diversity among its students.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how exclusivism affects social groups?

Yeah, it really creates divisions among people.

I guess it makes it hard for others to feel included.

Exactly! It's important to find ways to be more inclusive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exclusivism → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "claudere" (meaning to shut or close), combined with the suffix "-ism" (indicating a practice or philosophy). The term refers to a philosophy or practice that shuts out or excludes certain elements or groups.

Memory Tip

Think of 'shutting out' ('claudere') something 'from' ('ex-') — that's why exclusivism means a practice that excludes certain things.

Visually Confused Words