expansionist
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪkˈspænʃənɪst/
KK: /ɪkˈspænʃənɪst/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a policy or practice of expanding a country's territory or influence.
Example
The government adopted an expansionist approach to increase its influence in the region.
Conversation
Have you heard about the expansionist policies some countries are adopting?
Yeah, it's interesting how that can impact global relations.
Right? It seems like it could lead to more conflicts.
Definitely, especially if nations feel threatened by those expansionist moves.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
aggressive
expansive
ambitious
Antonyms
restrictive
conservative
limited
noun
Definition
A person who supports or promotes the idea of expanding a country's territory or influence.
Example
The politician was known as an expansionist, always advocating for the country's growth and influence abroad.
Conversation
Have you heard about that expansionist policy they’re discussing in the news?
Yeah, it sounds like they want to increase their influence in other regions.
I wonder how that will affect the local communities involved.
Root Explanation
Expansionist → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "pandere" (meaning to spread). The word describes someone who advocates for spreading or extending influence or territory outward.
Memory Tip
Think of 'spreading out' ('ex-') and 'extending' ('pandere') to remember that an expansionist is someone who wants to extend their influence or territory.
Visually Confused Words
antiexpansionist
extensionist
expulsionist
explosionist
passionist
expressionist